Necesidades formativas de los entrenadores de fútbol adaptado Adaptive Soccer coaches' training needs

Abstract

Educating and training adaptive football coaches is essential for professional development. By analysing the identity, competences and functions of professional football coaches working with people with functional diversity, this study aims to investigate their specific training requirements. A qualitative approach was adopted. A case study was carried out involving 13 coaches from 10 clubs in Spain who are members of LaLiga Genuine. In-depth interviews were used as the primary data collection method, with six dimensions of exploration: career entry, initial training, access to the profession, professional development, continuous training and impact of the coach. The data collected was analysed using thematic analysis. Our findings show that while coaches do not prioritise tactical or technical training related to the sport, they do need training in didactic aspects such as effective communication and group management. Coaches expressed the need for training focused on disability, including understanding the concept and working with individuals with functional diversity, taking into account their unique needs. These coaches also emphasised the importance of the development of attitudinal and socio-emotional skills, particularly empathy.