How to become an Athlete
Official title: Athletes
Also called: Athlete, Track athlete, Amateur athlete, Professional athlete, Archer, Bowler, Curler, Fencer, Golfer, Jockey, Judoka, Jumper
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.
Main tasks
- 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
How to become one
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.
Pay · Outlook
- Median pay: $53,625 a year The middle half earn $41,730 to $80,048.
- About 2,700 people worked in this job in 2023, and about 3,200 are projected by 2033. (+18.5%)
- Projected labour market to 2033: strong risk of surplus.
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Questions people ask
How do I become an Athlete?
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.
How much does an Athlete earn in Canada?
Median full-time pay is $53,625 a year (Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank)). The middle half earn $41,730 to $80,048.
Is an Athlete a growing career in Canada?
Yes. Employment is projected to grow 19% by 2033, from about 2,700 to about 3,200 people (Employment and Social Development Canada).
Do you need a degree to become an Athlete?
Usually not. Only 24% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
Sources
- Statistics Canada: Census 2021: employment by occupation, gender and education (98-10-0449) (2021 Census), Statistics Canada Open Licence, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Statistics Canada: National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 (Version 1.0), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada: Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) (2024 to 2033), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank): Wages by occupation (2025 (revised 2025-11-19)), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
Updated 2026-10-03