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Athletes and Sports Competitors

SOC 27-2021.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers competitive athletes and sports competitors operating in training facilities, practice venues, and competitive arenas across amateur and professional settings, from entry-level participation through elite leadership and organizational representation.

Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Scheduled practice sessionsattend consistently and on time under direct coach supervision at a training facility.
  2. Basic sport rules and regulationsrecognize and follow during introductory competitive events with referee guidance.
  3. Warm-up and cool-down routinesperform as instructed by an athletic trainer before and after practice sessions.
  4. Coach instructions prior to eventsreceive, acknowledge, and attempt to apply during supervised competition.
  5. Personal athletic equipmentidentify, inspect for basic damage, and store properly after each training session.
  6. Physical conditioning exercisescomplete assigned drills and repetitions under the direction of a professional coach.
  7. Post-performance feedbacklisten actively and record key points provided by coaching staff after competitive events.
  8. Nutrition and hydration guidelinesfollow basic plans provided by health professionals to support training readiness.
  9. Team meeting protocolsparticipate respectfully, listen to teammate input, and follow group directives during briefings.
  10. Personal performance datatrack basic statistics such as times, scores, or repetitions using a provided spreadsheet or log.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Athletic performance assessmentreview personal competition results, identify recurring strengths and weaknesses, and discuss adjustments with a coach.
  2. Sport-specific equipment maintenanceclean, repair minor wear, and replace consumable parts routinely between competitive seasons.
  3. Physical fitness levelsmaintain through self-directed regular training, balanced nutrition, and periodic check-ins with health professionals.
  4. Competition regulations and officiating signalsinterpret and apply correctly across varied competitive settings with minimal coach prompting.
  5. Pre-competition preparation routinesorganize personal warm-up, mental readiness, and equipment checks with limited oversight.
  6. Skill development exercisesexecute coach-designed drills independently and adapt effort based on observed gaps in performance.
  7. Post-event performance discussionsengage constructively with coaching staff, contributing specific observations about in-game decisions.
  8. Media and public appearance obligationsfulfill basic team representation duties such as brief interviews or community event attendance.
  9. Time management across training, competition, and recoverybalance schedule demands using calendar or office suite software tools.
  10. Peer coordination during team practiceadjust personal positioning and timing in response to teammates' movements in familiar drills.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Performance self-analysisindependently assess competition film and statistical data to identify tactical weaknesses and implement targeted improvements.
  2. Equipment condition and compliancemanage full inspection, maintenance, and replacement cycles for all personal sport equipment meeting regulatory standards.
  3. Advanced physical conditioningdesign and execute personalized training regimens integrating strength, stamina, and explosive power metrics across a competitive season.
  4. Complex in-game decision makingevaluate rapidly changing competitive situations and select optimal actions under pressure without coach intervention.
  5. Rules and strategy applicationapply nuanced understanding of sport regulations to gain competitive advantages in high-stakes events.
  6. Cross-functional collaboration with sports staffcommunicate detailed physical and tactical feedback to coaches, trainers, and analysts to refine preparation plans.
  7. Public and media representationdeliver polished speeches, conduct media interviews, and participate in charity events that positively reflect the organization.
  8. Injury prevention and recovery monitoringrecognize early warning signs of physical strain and coordinate with health professionals to adjust training loads proactively.
  9. Mentorship of developing athletesmodel correct technique and competitive mindset during shared training sessions, offering structured informal guidance.
  10. Performance reporting toolsuse analytical or scientific software to interpret competition data and present findings to coaching staff using presentation software.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Organizational performance cultureestablish standards of achievement orientation, perseverance, and self-discipline that define team identity across a full competitive program.
  2. Strategic season planninglead collaborative development of multi-month training and competition schedules aligned with peak performance targets and organizational goals.
  3. Athlete development pipelinementor and evaluate emerging and developing athletes, providing structured feedback that accelerates skill acquisition at scale.
  4. Media and brand strategydirect the team or club's public communications approach, overseeing spokesperson activities, social media presence, and marketing partnerships.
  5. Cross-departmental resource coordinationliaise with personnel, management, and external sponsors using ERP and office suite platforms to align operational and athletic priorities.
  6. High-performance environment designinfluence facility, equipment procurement, and sports science investment decisions to optimize conditions for elite competition.
  7. Crisis and stress management leadershipmodel composure and decisive judgment during high-pressure competitive failures, guiding team psychological resilience.
  8. Community and stakeholder engagementrepresent the sport at an industry or governing-body level through speaking engagements, charity leadership, and youth program advocacy.
  9. Long-term athlete health stewardshipchampion evidence-based nutrition, recovery, and mental health practices organization-wide, collaborating with medical professionals to set policy.
  10. Competitive intelligence and innovationanalyze emerging tactical trends and rule changes across the sport landscape and introduce adaptive strategies that maintain organizational competitive edge.

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted performance review — uses AI video analysis tools to review recorded training sessions, identifying surface-level technical errors flagged by the system without yet interpreting deeper tactical patterns Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Nutrition and recovery planning support — prompts AI tools to generate personalized nutrition schedules and recovery protocols based on training load data, cross-checking outputs against guidance from registered dietitians and team physicians Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  2. Equipment maintenance logging — delegates routine equipment inspection checklists and maintenance scheduling to an AI assistant, verifying outputs against manufacturer specifications before acting.
Proficient
  1. Post-competition performance analysis — directs AI analytics platforms to process competition footage and statistical data, then synthesizes AI-generated insights with personal judgment to identify actionable adjustments for future performance Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Opponent scouting synthesis — instructs an AI tool to aggregate and summarize opponent performance data from multiple sources, then applies critical thinking and situational experience to translate the summary into a competitive game plan Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Training session optimization — uses AI scheduling and load-monitoring tools to structure practice blocks, while retaining final authority over intensity adjustments based on perceived physical readiness Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Real-time decision augmentation — integrates AI-generated in-game statistical overlays and pattern-recognition alerts into pre-competition briefings, critically evaluating AI recommendations against lived competitive experience before incorporating them into on-field judgment Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Career performance modeling — commissions AI-driven longitudinal modeling of personal performance trends, injury risk probabilities, and peak-form windows, then leads strategic conversations with coaching staff and agents using AI outputs as evidence rather than directives Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 91
Augment share: 9.1%
Time saved: 80.1%
AI autonomy: 3.29
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Speaking
Score: 48.5 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication10 statements
Emerging
  1. Media interaction baseline — delivers brief, scripted responses to straightforward press questions following competition events O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Post-game debrief communication — articulates specific performance observations to coaches during structured post-competition reviews, distinguishing strengths from technical errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Teammate coordination signals — communicates in-play instructions and positional cues to teammates using sport-specific verbal and nonverbal signals during competition O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Community engagement communication — participates in organized charity events and public appearances, adapting message and tone to non-sports audiences O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Performance narrative communication — delivers clear, composed, and detailed post-competition analyses to coaching staff and media representatives that reflect genuine self-assessment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Locker room leadership communication — addresses teammates directly before and after competition, conveying tactical priorities and motivational messages with clarity and conviction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Media fluency — responds to journalist questions with consistent messaging, managing tone and content across press conferences, interviews, and social media contexts O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-audience communication mastery — tailors complex athletic performance narratives for coaches, media, sponsors, and youth audiences simultaneously, shifting register and depth with precision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Public spokesperson presence — represents the team or sports club in high-stakes media environments, speeches, and brand partnerships, modeling articulate and professional communication standards for younger athletes O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Role accountability initiation — arrives prepared for scheduled practice sessions and takes ownership of individual assigned responsibilities within team structure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Self-directed preparation — independently follows assigned training and nutrition plans without requiring external prompting, demonstrating early initiative Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Practice culture contribution — sets visible effort standards during training sessions that encourage higher performance norms among peers Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. In-competition decision initiative — makes independent tactical decisions during competition within established team strategy without waiting for explicit coaching direction O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Team standard-setting — consistently models disciplined preparation, sportsmanship, and competitive focus behaviors that define team culture across full competitive seasons Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer development support — provides direct, constructive feedback to teammates during practice drills, identifying correction opportunities and reinforcing successful technique Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Accountability under pressure — takes clear, personal responsibility for performance errors in post-competition debriefs without deflecting to external factors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Veteran athlete mentorship — formally guides emerging athletes through training protocols, mental preparation routines, and professional conduct expectations within the competitive environment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational representation leadership — leads team initiatives in community outreach, charity events, and institutional representation activities, elevating club reputation through consistent personal leadership O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Culture architecture — shapes team identity and competitive standards across a roster through deliberate example, direct conversation, and collaborative norm-building with coaching staff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition9 statements
Emerging
  1. Training self-monitoring onset — notices personal fatigue, technique breakdown, or focus loss during practice sessions and reports observations to coaching staff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback integration awareness — identifies one or two specific coaching corrections received and tracks whether adjustments were applied in subsequent repetitions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Performance pattern recognition — identifies recurring technical or tactical errors across multiple competitions by reviewing personal performance data and coach feedback logs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Preparation strategy adjustment — modifies pre-competition warm-up or mental readiness routines based on reflection about what conditions produced peak past performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Self-directed performance audit — conducts structured post-competition self-assessments independent of coaching prompts, distinguishing execution errors from strategic errors and prioritizing corrective action Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning strategy calibration — evaluates which practice modalities, visualization techniques, and physical preparation methods most efficiently accelerate personal skill development and adjusts training accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Competitive state awareness — monitors internal arousal, focus quality, and physical readiness in real time during competition and applies self-regulation strategies to maintain peak execution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Performance improvement architecture — designs personalized long-cycle improvement plans that integrate biomechanical analysis, psychological readiness, and nutrition timing based on deep self-knowledge Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Metacognitive coaching translation — articulates personal thinking and preparation strategies to teammates and junior athletes in ways that accelerate their own self-awareness development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking10 statements
Emerging
  1. Rule and regulation comprehension — reads and interprets rulebooks, officiating signals, and competition protocols to understand permissible actions during athletic events O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Basic opponent observation — notices obvious opponent behavioral tendencies during competition and attempts one tactical adjustment based on that observation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Tactical scenario analysis — evaluates multiple strategic options available in a given game situation and selects an action based on probability of success given current conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment performance evaluation — assesses condition of personal athletic equipment against performance standards and identifies items requiring maintenance or replacement O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Injury and health signal interpretation — analyzes physical symptoms and performance dips to determine when consultation with a health professional is warranted O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. In-competition judgment execution — applies rapid, evidence-based decision-making under physical and psychological pressure, weighing opponent behavior, environmental conditions, and team state simultaneously Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Post-competition strength and weakness analysis — conducts rigorous evaluation of competition performance using film, statistics, and direct experience to distinguish situational variance from systematic deficiency O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Training prioritization logic — critically evaluates which physical attributes and technical skills offer the highest performance return given competition schedule, current condition, and opponent profile Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Strategic game-planning contribution — collaborates with coaching staff to critically examine opponent tendencies and propose tactical frameworks that counter identified weaknesses Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Evidence synthesis for performance optimization — integrates biomechanical data, nutrition science, psychological research, and competitive analytics to form reasoned conclusions about personal performance improvement pathways Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration9 statements
Emerging
  1. Practice participation as team member — follows team training session structure, executes assigned drills cooperatively, and avoids behaviors that disrupt collective preparation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Coaching staff responsiveness — receives and acts on instructions from coaches and athletic trainers without resistance, demonstrating basic cooperative orientation O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. In-play team coordination — adjusts personal positioning and decision-making in real time to support teammates' actions during competition, prioritizing collective outcomes over individual statistics Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Trainer and health professional collaboration — works cooperatively with athletic trainers and sports medicine staff to follow recovery and conditioning protocols that serve team readiness O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Shared goal execution — consistently subordinates individual performance preferences to team tactical requirements, maintaining cooperative behavior across the pressures of a full competitive season Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Diverse perspective integration — navigates teammate differences in background, role, and playing style constructively, leveraging varied strengths to strengthen collective performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Staff partnership — actively partners with coaches, analysts, nutritionists, and sports psychologists as an engaged collaborator rather than a passive recipient of instruction O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Collaborative performance culture building — creates conditions where teammates communicate openly, support each other through adversity, and hold shared accountability for collective outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-functional sports team integration — coordinates across coaching, medical, media, and management stakeholders to align personal performance goals with organizational objectives O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Rules and sportsmanship adherence — competes according to established rules and regulations and accepts officiating decisions without public protest during early competitive experiences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment and facility responsibility — maintains personal athletic equipment properly and treats shared training facilities with care and respect O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Ethical competition conduct — refrains from unsportsmanlike behavior under competitive stress and holds the same behavioral standard whether winning or losing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional appearance and punctuality — arrives at scheduled practice and competition commitments on time, in proper attire, and prepared to perform Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Accountability under public scrutiny — accepts personal responsibility for poor performance outcomes in media and team settings without minimizing effort or blaming external factors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Integrity in performance representation — accurately represents physical condition, readiness, and injury status to coaches and medical staff, prioritizing team welfare over personal selection interests Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Community and brand conduct standards — upholds professional ethical standards in all public representations of the team or club, including charity events, media appearances, and social media behavior O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Character standard-bearer — models integrity, accountability, and sportsmanship consistently at the highest competitive levels, becoming a reference point for professional conduct within the organization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Ethical leadership in adversity — maintains principled behavior and protects team ethical standards during contract disputes, selection controversies, or competitive losing streaks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity9 statements
Emerging
  1. Novel technique experimentation — attempts a new skill variation or tactical approach during low-stakes practice settings when encouraged by coaching staff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Unconventional problem-solving attempt — applies an unexpected solution to a recurring performance challenge rather than defaulting solely to previously trained responses Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. In-competition improvisation — generates unscripted tactical solutions during live competition when standard plays are disrupted by opponent adjustments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-sport technique transfer — identifies a technique or physical practice method from another athletic discipline and applies it to improve performance in the primary sport Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Signature performance development — cultivates a distinctive technical or tactical style that is personally expressive and competitively effective, distinguishing individual contribution within team systems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Creative training design input — proposes innovative practice drills or conditioning approaches to coaching staff based on identified gaps between current training and competition demands Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Adaptive competition strategy — constructs real-time alternative game plans mid-competition when original tactical approaches are not producing desired outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Performance innovation influence — introduces novel techniques, training concepts, or competitive strategies that other athletes and coaches in the sport adopt or study Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Brand and narrative creativity — develops original and authentic personal narratives for media, sponsorship, and community engagement that differentiate professional identity beyond athletic statistics O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. Coaching feedback receptivity — receives corrective feedback from coaches and athletic trainers during practice without defensive reaction and attempts the requested adjustment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Challenge acceptance in training — participates in physically and technically demanding drills without avoidance, treating difficulty as a standard feature of athletic development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Setback reengagement — returns to full training effort following a poor competition result, injury recovery, or selection setback within an expected professional recovery window Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill gap pursuit — identifies a specific weakness in personal performance profile and voluntarily dedicates additional practice time to that area outside of required sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Long-cycle improvement commitment — sustains deliberate practice and nutrition discipline over multi-month training blocks without requiring external motivation to maintain effort levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Performance plateau navigation — responds to stalled improvement by experimenting with modified training approaches rather than repeating the same methods with diminishing returns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Failure-to-learning conversion — systematically extracts specific technical and tactical lessons from competitive losses and implements them in subsequent preparation cycles O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Career-long development orientation — maintains active investment in skill refinement, physical optimization, and tactical learning across a multi-year competitive career despite achieving high performance levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Growth culture modeling — demonstrates visible, consistent growth behaviors that shift team culture toward collective improvement orientation rather than fixed performance identity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Pre-competition routine establishment — follows a structured pre-event preparation sequence that creates consistent mental and physical readiness conditions before competition Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Basic focus management — redirects attention back to the current drill or exercise when concentration lapses during training sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Emotional regulation after errors — recovers composure and returns to effective performance execution within a short window following a mistake, foul, or scoring concession during competition Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Physical awareness monitoring — maintains ongoing awareness of body signals including fatigue, pain, and hydration status during training and competition and responds appropriately Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Present-moment competitive focus — sustains attention on the immediate play, movement, or tactical decision without distraction from crowd noise, scoreboard pressure, or previous errors during competition Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Intentional recovery practice — applies structured breathing, visualization, or body-scan techniques during recovery periods to manage arousal levels and optimize readiness for subsequent performance demands Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Pressure situation composure — maintains measured decision-making and physical execution quality during high-stakes competition moments including championship events and elimination situations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindful performance leadership — models and teaches present-moment awareness and emotional regulation practices to teammates, contributing to collective competitive composure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Elite state management — applies advanced psychological regulation strategies developed with sports psychologists to consistently access peak performance states across the variability of a professional competitive season Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude9 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical discomfort tolerance — continues participation in rigorous training sessions through expected muscular discomfort and fatigue without early withdrawal Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Initial adversity encounter — completes competition or practice despite first experiences of significant performance failure, public criticism, or injury disruption Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Injury recovery persistence — maintains rehabilitative training discipline and positive competitive orientation through the full duration of a recovery protocol following athletic injury Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Competitive losing streak navigation — sustains practice effort and professional conduct standards during multi-game losing periods without reduction in preparation quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Season-long performance resilience — maintains consistent training attendance, conditioning standards, and competitive readiness across a full competitive season including periods of fatigue, injury, and form loss Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. High-pressure performance execution — delivers required athletic performance in elimination, championship, or career-defining competition contexts despite elevated psychological and physical stakes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Selection adversity response — continues professional preparation and performance delivery after being dropped from a starting lineup or competition squad, maintaining readiness for reselection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Career adversity transcendence — sustains competitive excellence across major career disruptions including serious injury, contract uncertainty, or prolonged competitive drought, emerging with refined skills and perspective Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Fortitude exemplar — becomes a recognized model of resilience within the athletic community, publicly articulating and demonstrating how sustained effort and courage produce long-term competitive achievement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors55 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
All Terrain Vehicle Racer (ATV Racer) · Archer · Athlete · Automobile Racer (Auto Racer) · Barrel Racer · Baseball Pitcher · Baseball Player · Basketball Player · Bass Fisher · Bicycle Racer · Bicyclist · Billiard Player
RAPIDS apprenticeships
O*NET skills
SpeakingActive ListeningCritical ThinkingCoordinationJudgment and Decision MakingMonitoringSocial PerceptivenessReading ComprehensionComplex Problem SolvingTime ManagementActive LearningPersuasionInstructing
Knowledge domains
Administration and ManagementEnglish LanguageCustomer and Personal ServicePersonnel and Human ResourcesCommunications and MediaEducation and TrainingSales and MarketingMathematics
Abilities
Oral ComprehensionStatic StrengthStaminaOral ExpressionProblem SensitivityDynamic StrengthExplosive StrengthSpeech ClarityGross Body CoordinationNear Vision
Work styles
Achievement OrientationPerseveranceSelf-ConfidenceStress ToleranceSelf-ControlDependability
Technology
Graphics or photo imaging softwareElectronic mail softwareWeb page creation and editing softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwarePresentation softwareWord processing softwareAnalytical or scientific softwareEnterprise resource planning ERP softwareInstant messaging software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Assess performance following athletic competition, identifying strengths and weaknesses and making adjustments to improve future performance.
  2. Maintain equipment used in a particular sport.
  3. Attend scheduled practice or training sessions.
  4. Maintain optimum physical fitness levels by training regularly, following nutrition plans, or consulting with health professionals.
  5. Participate in athletic events or competitive sports, according to established rules and regulations.
  6. Exercise or practice under the direction of athletic trainers or professional coaches to develop skills, improve physical condition, or prepare for competitions.
  7. Receive instructions from coaches or other sports staff prior to events and discuss performance afterwards.
  8. Represent teams or professional sports clubs, performing such activities as meeting with members of the media, making speeches, or participating in charity events.
CIP education codes
31.0501

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.