Top 5 Pro Sports gigs

This topic came up in a leisurely discussion between my wife, my 8-year-old boy, and me. We were all marvelling at how active the 3 year-old boy was at the time, and started ponder the topic: "if we had the magical capability to choose one, which professional sport gig is the best?" Of course, this is pure fantasy, we are still contributing towards their RESP's (for outside readers, Registered Education Savings Plan, our government helps pay for kids to go to college here in Canada).

Here's our top 5:

Number 5: Professional Soccer



Appealing: Lots of places to play, including some exotic locations. Hi earning potential. Get to play outdoors. Hi celebrity factor in Europe, even in lower divisions. Short games, around about 2 hours.

Unappealing: Short career, likely considered a 'has been' by the age of 30. Best leagues far away from home. Risk of injury somewhat high. National team not likely to win many games. Not too popular in home country, pro game mainly having "cult" status so far.

Number 4: The NBA

Appealing: Free education from college, which can be applied after playing days are over. Guaranteed contracts. Hi exposure to celebrities, able to capitalize on celebrity status.

Unappealing: Low number on roster, ultra-competitive to get spot. No farm system to prolong career, or develop as a role player. High exposure to crime. Would have social/racial stigma of being "white player".

Number 3: Major League Baseball

Appealing: Long career, almost common to see players in forties. Guaranteed contracts. Chance to prolong career in minors. Low injury risk. Only play in good weather.

Unappealing: Not much down time, playing everyday. Highly politically charged atmosphere. Isolated to North America.



Number 2: The PGA

Appealing: Extremely long career. Huge income potential. Highly social game, get to meet other celebrities and the like. Very low injury risk. Can live in hometown, then fly away to touranments and come home.

Unappealing: No guaranteed money. Many have to requalify every year. Not particularly athletic of an endeavor, potential for becoming "fuller figured"



Number 1: The NHL

Appealing: Fits into home country's culture. Would fulfill "every Canadian boy's dream" to play in NHL. The ultimate team sport, other guys sticking up for you. Protected by "the code". Chance to earn good living and status in Europe. Low crime exposure.

Unappealing: Risk of concussion. Risk of deliberate injury (as in, someone like Todd Bertuzzi). Low chance of capitalizing on celebrity status. Very competitive in representing country at major tournament like Olympics. Low ethnic diversity.