Coaches prepare and train individual athletes and teams for competitive events. Sports scouts identify and recruit athletes for professional sports teams. Sports officials and referees observe and enforce rules governing sporting events, athletic games and sports competitions. Program leaders and instructors in recreation and sport plan and coordinate recreational, sports, fitness and athletic programs for individuals and groups. Education, Training and Experience People in this group usually require ability, experience and technical knowledge of their area of sport.
Many recent entrants have a high school diploma.
Athletes need extensive training under a coach's supervision and may require certification with a particular sports federation. Coaches usually need to complete the national coaching certificate program and have technical knowledge of the sport. Sports officials require certification and registration with a sport governing agency or commission. Referees must complete an officiating program from a sport governing agency. Program leaders and instructors usually need a high school diploma as well as a college diploma in recreation or physical education, or extensive experience in a specific recreational or sports program.