Salary, Wages, Pay: Athletes, Coaches, Umpires, and Related Workers

Median annual earnings of athletes were $45,320 in 2002. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $14,090, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $145,600. However, the highest paid professional athletes earn salaries far in excess of these estimates.

Median annual earnings of umpires and related workers were $20,540 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $16,210 and $29,490. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $13,760, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $40,350.

Median annual earnings of coaches and scouts were $27,880 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $17,890 and $42,250. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $13,370, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $60,230. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of coaches and scouts in 2002 were as follows:

Earnings vary by education level, certification, and geographic region. Some instructors and coaches are paid a salary, while others may be paid by the hour, per session, or based on the number of participants.