(1) As used in this section, the term “United States team” includes any group leader, coach, official, or athlete who is a member of the official delegation of the United States to world, Pan American, or Olympic competition.
(2) Any employee of the state who qualifies as a member of the United States team for athletic competition on the world, Pan American, or Olympic level in a sport contested in either Pan American or Olympic competition shall be granted administrative leave without loss of pay or other benefits or rights for the purpose of preparing for and engaging in the competition. In no event shall the paid leave under this section exceed the period of the official training camp and competition combined or 30 calendar days a year, whichever is less.
