Content area
The aim of the study is to identify the professional competencies and formative needs of volleyball coaches involved in school-age sports. The study first identifies the professional competencies of these coaches, analyses the importance attributed to them, and evaluates the level of perceived command of them. It then examines the training model for sports coaches in Spain along with their sociodemographic profile and identifies the main training needs. Subsequently, based on these results, guidelines are established to enhance the training of these professionals. The study is divided into two stages: an exploratory stage that includes a literature review and interviews with expert volleyball coaches, and a descriptive stage that involves the administration of the Questionnaire of assessment of the professional competencies of school-age volleyball coaches to an intentional sample of those professionals from across Spain. Qualitative data are analysed using content analysis and categorization, while quantitative data are analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics for non-parametric data, with a 95% confidence interval. As a result, a total of 43 professional competencies grouped into 7 dimensions are identified. The study participants are mostly male with extensive experience in the volleyball field and federative certification, but with academic backgrounds outside the field of Physical Activity, Physical Education and Sports. It is found that all professional competencies are important for the work of these professionals and are perceived with a good level of command, although areas for improvement are identified. The study about the coach training model and the sociodemographic profile highlights positive aspects, weaknesses areas and potentialities. The primary training needs focus on dimensions and competencies that exhibit a greater gap between their importance and perceived command, as well as those with lower perceived command and those with higher importance ratings, among other factors mentioned by the study participants. Recommendations for improving training include personalized training, a less traditional organization of training blocks, tutorial actions, and mandatory non-binding continuous training. It is also suggested to reflect on the professional recognition of this group, especially for female coaches. Finally, the importance of addressing these competencies and training needs to ensure an enriching and educational sports experience for young athletes is emphasized.