Every year, schools and sports associations face a major challenge: recruiting and retaining competent, dedicated coaches. Coaches play a fundamental role in the development of young athletes, their safety and the promotion of health through sport. Understanding their motivations and needs is crucial to attracting and retaining them. That’s where modern tools like MonClubSportif come in, to make coaches’ work easier.
According to several sports associations in Quebec, nearly one coach out of three does not return the following year. Why?
It is estimated that a volunteer coach devotes on average 6 to 10 hours per week to their team, including practices, games, preparation, and communications. These figures remind us how precious their commitment is and why it is urgent to adopt practices that promote their well‑being and loyalty.
To recruit effectively, it is necessary to understand what motivates coaches to commit to this path. Motivations can be varied: passion for sport, desire to contribute to the community, wish to gain experience or develop skills, etc. A regular survey of coaches’ interests can help target recruitment efforts and offer attractive propositions.
Recognition of the work accomplished is a powerful retention factor. Too often forgotten, coaches need to feel that their involvement is noticed and appreciated.
Whether through simple words of thanks, mentions in official communications, the presentation of certificates at events, or public testimonials, every gesture counts. These actions help foster a sense of belonging and strengthen their motivation to return season after season.
Short surveys during the season are an excellent way to take the coaches’ pulse. Their responses make it possible to better understand what worked well, what motivated them… or, conversely, what discouraged them.
By giving them the opportunity to speak up, we show that they are being heard and that they have a real impact on improving sports programs. This feedback can guide concrete adjustments for the next season: better planning, adjustment of responsibilities, increased support, etc.
To recruit effectively, you need to understand what motivates coaches to take this path. Motivations can be varied: passion for the sport, desire to contribute to the community, desire to gain experience or develop skills, etc. A regular survey of coaches’ interests can help target recruitment efforts and propose attractive offers.
Coaches play a crucial role in the lives of young athletes. They are not only technical guides, but also behavior role models. They contribute to the acquisition of important values such as team spirit, perseverance, and respect for others. Moreover, by encouraging physical activity, they play an important role in promoting the health of young people.
The safety of young athletes is an absolute priority. Coaches must be trained to prevent injuries, intervene in case of an accident, and create a sporting environment, safe and respectful. This includes the management of conflicts, the prevention of harassment, and the promotion of a positive team culture.
Offering continuing education opportunities is an excellent way of retaining coaches. These can focus on improving technical skills, team management, sports psychology or first aid. Coaches who feel supported and see that they can progress are more likely to stay.
To recruit and retain coaches effectively, it is important to understand their motivations, to offer them continuous training opportunities, to recognize their central role in the lives of young people, and to guarantee them a safe and respectful framework. By adding to this concrete gestures of appreciation, feedback mechanisms such as surveys, and consideration of field data, schools and sports associations will be able to ensure they have a team of competent, committed, and loyal coaches, ready to train the athletes of tomorrow.
Karl Demers
The summer season is often synonymous with high activity for sports associations. With the increase in registrations and events, the need for […]
As a coach, you've probably already had to deal with conflicts between your players. Resolving these disputes is no picnic, but it's essential […]
MonClubSportif offers many advantages to coaches and sports organizations in their team management.
