Right now I'm pretty sure I'm going to pursue a major in psychology, but it wasn't till a couple of days ago that I started to think about branching out into sports psychology. Does anyone have any experience in the field? how much does a one make? do soccer teams in other countries use sports psychologists? do any specific colleges have great programs in this area of psychology?
When I entered my Master's program I was pretty sure I wanted to go into Sport Psychology. As I progressed through the program I realized that I was interested in other areas of exercise and sport, so I made a change. There are quite a few good graduate programs out there, but it all depends on what you'd like to study. I know the University of North Carolina, the University of Illinois, Temple University, and a number of others have good programs. I have sent you a PM with a link to an email listserv, lurk on that for a while and read what's being discussed -- you'll also see postings from some of the better researchers in the field on that list, which might help you to ID programs that interest you. As for income, I think it depends what you want to do. Researchers/faculty can range from the 40k up to 100k+ range. If you're an actual practitioner it depends on how many clients, etc. I'd have no idea in that realm what is earned (I'm in the University Faculty world). Oh, and one more thing. It's Sport Psychology (not Sports). The pros in the field get all squirrely when someone calls it Sports Psychology. Not trying to be a jerk, just trying to save you from some potential flaming. Check your PMs for the listserv link.
Sport Psychology graduate programs are available throughout the States. Anyone who earns a masters(MS) or PhD in sport psychology can become a sport psychologist. As you apparently live in California I suggest you check out the John F.Kennedy University at 100 Elinwood Way, Pleasant Hill, Ca. It trains students in the specialised field of sport psychology. Many graduates undertake doctoral study in a field that will allow them to practice as sport psychologists. The program allows them to apply MA credits toward a PsyD which saves time and money.