They may also be self- employed. Athletes participate in competitive sports events on an amateur or professional basis. They play team sports such as hockey, baseball and football, or compete in individual sports such as figure skating, track and field and boxing. 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.