Professional Sports Associations

Organizations whose members are professional franchise teams or individual professionals who are active in a particular sport. Professional athletic associations publicize and promote interest in a particular sport, the athletes and/or teams currently involved in the sport, and individual games or tournaments and the match-ups they represent; oversee the draft of players during the preseason, where relevant; establish preseason and seasonal playing schedules (for team sports); conduct tournaments and other championships (for individual sports); sponsor "all star" games or competitions outside regular season play; maintain information about team rosters, starting players, injuries and trades; compile and publish annual and career statistics for individuals and/or teams; maintain sports halls of fame; issue awards for outstanding play; provide assistance and support for athletes who may be experiencing personal difficulties; and marshal the resources of association members to support a wide variety of charitable activities.