National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2011

A

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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. Athletes are employed by professional team organizations or they may be self-employed. This unit group also includes competitors such as chess players and poker players.

  • 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

  • Exclusion(s)

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

    Athletes perform 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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