By Ashley Miller
Nature of the Work: As a nation of sports fans, we dream of days of glory on the baseball field and basketball court, but the unfortunate reality is that most don't make it. As for those who do spend a precious few years in professional leagues, injuries or league economics are a looming threat. An education, however, will outlast the misfortunes and provide you the opportunity to make sports a part of your life in other ways. Many with an interest in sports become coaches or teachers, or choose a related career path.
Elite athletes participate in officiated games to entertain spectators. This high-level competition requires that they have a deep knowledge of the rules of the game, as well as an understanding of strategy. Specific requirements vary by sport and level of play.
In addition to an extraordinary physical talent, elite athletes must have a dedication to training. When not competing, they spend the majority of their time preparing for the next athletic event. Most elite athletes spend hours at practice each day and additional hours in the gym strength training. As competition is intense and job security precarious, athletes train year-round to ensure they are always at peak performance.
Education and Training: Elite athletes need an immense knowledge of the rules and strategies of their sport, which is usually acquired through years of play at the lower levels. Natural talent must be honed as well, a process that occurs as an athlete progresses towards professional play. Most teams and organizations expect at least a high school diploma of athletes. Colleges and the NCAA have minimum academic requirements for collegiate athletes.
Outlook: Sports is a big, and expanding, business. Expected growth in the sports sector contributes to the average growth rate of jobs for top-level athletes. Competition will remain remarkably intense despite new jobs in expanded professional leagues and new minor leagues. Injury remains a major concern among athletes as it often signals the end of a career.
Salary Range: $28,000 to $100,000.