National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2016 Version 1.3

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5 - Occupations in art, culture, recreation and sport

This category includes occupations in art and culture, including the performing arts, film and video, broadcasting, journalism, writing, creative design, libraries and museums. It also includes occupations in recreation and sports.

These occupations are linked by subject matter to formal post-secondary educational programs but have, for the most part, a range of acceptable qualifications. Occupations in this category are also characterized by a requirement for creative talent, such as for designers and performers, and for athletic ability in the area of sport.

52 - Technical occupations in art, culture, recreation and sport

This major group comprises technical occupations in art, culture, recreation and sport. It includes technical occupations in libraries, public archives, museums and art galleries; in motion picture production, graphic arts, broadcasting and the performing arts; and as photographers, announcers, creative designers, craftspersons, athletes, coaches, sports officials, sport and fitness instructors and some performers.

525 - Athletes, coaches, referees and related occupations

This minor group includes athletes, coaches, sports officials, referees, and program leaders and instructors in recreation, sport and fitness. They are employed by national, provincial and local sports organizations, leagues and sporting commissions; professional and amateur sports teams; universities; community centres, sports and fitness clubs, outdoor centres, resorts, recreational facilities, health care facilities, retirement homes and correctional institutions; and government departments, private businesses and tourism associations; or they may be self-employed.

5251 - Athletes

Athletes participate in competitive sports events on an amateur or professional basis. They play team sports such as hockey, baseball, football and lacrosse; or compete in individual sports such as skiing, figure skating, boxing or track and field; or in games such as poker or chess. They are employed by professional team organizations or they may be self-employed.

  • Illustrative example(s)

    • athlete
    • baseball player
    • boxer
    • figure skater
    • football player
    • golfer
    • harness race driver
    • hockey player
    • jockey
    • professional athlete
    • skier
    • sprinter
    • track athlete

    All examples

  • Inclusion(s)

    • competitor - gambling
    • gamer - video games
  • Exclusion(s)

    • Coaches (See 5252 Coaches)
    • Sports instructors (See 5254 Program leaders and instructors in recreation, sport and fitness)
    • Sports officials and referees (See 5253 Sports officials and referees)
  • Main duties

    This group performs some or all of the following duties:

    • Train under the direction of a coach or trainer to qualify for competition
    • Attend scheduled practice and training sessions
    • Participate in local, regional, provincial, national or international competitions and sporting events
    • Assess performance after an event to identify strengths and weaknesses.
  • Employment requirements

    • Demonstrated ability in a particular sport, or type of game, is required.
    • Extensive training under the supervision of a coach is required.
    • Certification with a particular sports federation may be required.
    • A background combining athletic training and college or university studies is strongly recommended.
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