Being an athlete is not the only way to experience the thrills of a sports game first-hand. Referees and sports officials usually spend more time in the field or in the arena than athletes themselves and are often just as instrumental to the outcome—and enjoyment—of a game. Pursuing a career in sports officiating requires a love of the sport, an eye for detail, and patience, among a host of other qualities. This exciting volume details the keys to ensuring fairness, safety, and sportsmanship on the field and the skills required to become a successful sports official.

There is nothing like the emotions athletes feel in victory and defeat. Sports coverage provides a similar rush for the media professionals who witness the action and make it real for their audiences. In this volume, readers learn about the exciting careers of sportswriters, announcers, and the dedicated professionals who work away from the public eye, outlining the skills and preparation that these jobs require. Print and broadcast employers need workers talented and trained in writing and speaking, electronics, art, photography and personal communications. Sidebars profile sports journalists, photographers, and commentators such as ESPN's Holly Rowe.

In this lively career guide, readers who hope to be a scout learn there are high school and college scouts who find and judge talent, professional scouts who assess players on rival teams for possible trades or free agent signings, and advance scouts who evaluate players from other organizations and report back to their coaches about how best to attack or defend them in upcoming games. The job requires a willingness to travel, a keen eye for talent, and knowledge of an athlete's strengths and weaknesses. Handy back matter sections list educational programs, BLS information, and key career facts.

Beyond being an athlete or coach, there are numerous careers in the sports industry that job seekers can consider. This volume focuses on the law angle of sports, representing athletes and sports organizations in legal situations, whether personal or professional. Some sports law jobs don't even require law school, making the information valuable to students not interested in long-term education. Career preparation series are a terrific tool for students getting ready to take the next step toward college and beyond.

This career guide highlights the various academic and professional pathways that one can follow to arrive at a career in the sports industry.

This career guide focuses on what education and other life skills might be required to take on positions in stadium and sports facility operations.

"Teen Dream Jobs" presents advice to job-searching teens with practical information and resources. Photos.

Profiles ninety percent of the jobs in the economy, nearly 270 in total, covering each one's nature, working conditions, required skills, training, advancement, outlook, earnings, and related occupations.