GUANGZHOU: Sports, personnel and labor authorities in this southern city are working together to draft an employment law to provide jobs for local retired athletes.

The move comes after a deputy of the local people's congress proposed the government give preferential policies, in terms of education and employment, to athletes in retirement.

"The city has an increasing number of retired athletes who have found it hard to find a job. As a result, the government should draw up policies to ensure either education or employment opportunities for them," Li Xiaofeng, a deputy of the Guangzhou People's Congress, said.

Li also called for the establishment of a special employment foundation for athletes who have finished their sports careers.

"It is tough for athletes to transfer from a sports career to a new life after retirement. They began training in their chosen sport when they were very young and were not able to obtain the education available to their peers attending normal schools. It is almost impossible for them to get a normal job," Li told China Daily.

He said a sound social security system and access to education were essential in helping retired athletes start a new life.

"The government should provide lifelong subsidies for athletes who have lost the ability to work because of a sporting injury," Li said.

In addition, Li called for "a fair chance" for all athletes to go back to school after they retire.

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