Pick one category for the following text. The options are - company, educational institution, artist, athlete, office holder, mean of transportation, building, natural place, village, animal, plant, album, film or written work. Markus Beierle -  Markus Beierle (born 2 June 1972) is a retired German footballer. Born in Brackenheim he was a striker for the Southern Region team SV Darmstadt 98 and was one of the main catalysts in the subsequent rise of the Darmstadt team through the regional divisions.His career began at TSV Cleebronn and Union Böckingen. Professional scouts became interested in his talents and in 1992 he signed a contract with VfB Stuttgart.
Answer:
Athlete