Professional athletic teams consist of the very best athletes in the United States, as well as the best fronm overseas. Without the support of the fans, professional sports would not exist. Probably the most underestimated aspect of being a pro is the strenuous workload, to say the least. Besides playing in the actual games, athletes must spend hours upon hours every day in practice and in the training room, and the only vacation time players get is during the off-season. Those planning to be professional athletes get much of their training as amateur players on high school and college teams.
Many aspiring athletes attend sports camps and clinics, which also provide training and experience.
Professional athletes do not need to meet specific educational requirements. School is important, however, because a solid education will help athletes prepare for life during and after a professional sports career. For example, a degree in speech communication can prepare aspiring players for a job in the broadcast booth. A business degree can also be helpful, for many companies recognize the public relation benefits of having a former professoinal athlete on their staff. Professional athletics is perhaps the most competitive field in the United States.