An In-Depth Analysis of Youth Sport Coaches’ Perceptions of Sport Culture, Safety, and Injury Prevention

Abstract

Coaches are key stakeholders in the world of youth-organized sports. As key stakeholders, they are influential to the “culture of sport” and how it pertains to safety and injury in sport. However, little data exists to inform injury prevention intervention in youth sport. There is a critical need to understand the perceptions and norms that contribute to youth sport culture and coaches’ perceptions of this culture. The purpose of this study was to develop an understanding of youth sport coaches’ attitudes, perceptions, and norms regarding sport culture and injury. Thirty coaches were divided into five recorded focus groups. Following transcription, researchers utilized a consensual qualitative research framework. The research team individually coded data into themes and categories, meeting to attain a consensus on findings. An auditor controlled for bias. Participants highlighted three key areas related to the purpose of the study: (1) influences and expectations, (2) sport safety, and (3) education and development. Findings suggest that youth sport coaches view themselves as an integral component of sports culture, safety, and injury prevention. As such, coaches must build relationships with the community to provide a foundation for optimal sport and health outcomes.