Introduction: Sports coaching is a pivotal factor in the development and success of athletes, yet a noticeable knowledge gap in coach education programs specifically tailored for coaching of female athletes still exists. This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of retired elite female athletes to inform the development of female-specific coach education programs. By delving into the perspectives of these elite athletes, the purpose of the present study was to identify areas for improvement in coaching practices and content for future coach education programs. Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with retired elite female athletes (n=8) representing diverse sporting backgrounds, including both team and individual sports. All participants had represented Norway at the elite level in their sports, respectively, including the Olympic Games and World Championships. These interviews explored athletes lived experiences, preferences, and recommendations pertaining to coaching practices and the needs of female-specific coach education programs. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the collected data. Results: The interviews revealed several recurring themes concerning coaching of female athletes. Notably, athletes emphasized the importance of coaches understanding of the biological, psychological, and social (biopsychosocial) needs of female athletes. Specifically, biological aspects of injuries and the menstrual cycle was underpinned by their own experiences as well as experiences of peer athletes that did not make it to the elite level. Effective communication also emerged as a key aspect of coaching, with athletes highlighting the significance of coaches who actively listened and responded to their needs. Furthermore, there was a consensus among the athletes regarding the necessity for coach education programs to be tailored specifically to the requirements of coaching female athletes. The interviews also provided more nuanced insights into the attributes of exemplary coaches as well as areas where coaching practices could be further improved. Discussion: The findings underscore the critical need for coach education programs that are addressing the distinct coaching needs of female athletes. By incorporating insights from retired elite athletes, such as the importance of understanding females` biopsychosocial needs, future coach education programs can better prepare coaches to support and empower this overlooked group of athletes. Addressing these key areas for improvement will not only benefit individual coaches, but also contribute to the overall athletic participation, development, and performances of female athletes in sports. Conclusion:These lived experiences of retired female athletes provide valuable insights for establishing the needs of coaches who are coaching female athletes, thereby providing important steps toward developing a biopsychosocial coach education program for improved coaching of female athletes.
© Copyright 2024 29th Annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science, 2-5 July 2024, Book of Abstracts. Veröffentlicht von European College of Sport Science. Alle Rechte vorbehalten.