DECA Sports and Entertainment Marketing Practice Exam

Who is typically referred to as a handler in sports?

1. A financial advisor for athletes

2. A marketing manager

3. A personal manager overseeing an athlete's career

4. A coach specializing in athlete performance

The correct answer is: A personal manager overseeing an athlete's career

In the context of sports, a handler is typically referred to as a personal manager overseeing an athlete's career. This individual plays a crucial role in guiding the athlete's professional journey, including contract negotiations, public relations, and brand management. The handler is responsible for making strategic decisions that can significantly impact the athlete's career trajectory and marketability. They help manage the athlete's time, facilitate communications with sponsors and media, and sometimes even assist in personal areas that may affect professional performance. While financial advisors and marketing managers play important roles in an athlete's career, they do not fulfill the comprehensive personal management functions that handlers do. Coaches, on the other hand, focus primarily on the athlete's performance and skill development rather than the overall management of their career. Therefore, the definition of a handler aligns most closely with the responsibilities of a personal manager in the sports industry.