Coaching Knowledge Dimensions in Track and Field: A Model for Coach Education

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original

Authors

1 Department of Management and Accounting, Farabi Campus, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, University of Neyshabur, Neyshabur

10.22108/asml.2026.147837.1127

Abstract

Sports coaching requires diverse knowledge forms. While international coach education frameworks exist, they inadequately address context-specific needs, particularly in specialized sports like track and field. In Iran, persistent coaching gaps contribute to a high athlete dropout rate, training injuries, and declining international performance. This study aimed to identify the key knowledge dimensions required by Iranian track and field coaches. Using qualitative thematic analysis, 20 participants—six university professors in sport sciences with a focus on coaching and physical education, 12 experienced coaches, and two veteran athletes—were engaged in semi-structured interviews. Participants were selected through purposive snowball sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data were analyzed using Attride-Stirling's thematic network approach. Four knowledge dimensions emerged: Foundational Knowledge (theoretical and practical sport sciences), Personal Knowledge (values, coaching philosophy, intrapersonal knowledge), Professional Knowledge (supervisory-managerial and technical-tactical skills), and Contextual Knowledge (experiential and behavioral dimensions). These findings extend existing international frameworks by recognizing foundational scientific knowledge and contextual knowledge as distinct and essential dimensions that have been previously underrepresented. This four-dimension model provides a comprehensive framework grounded in the Iranian coaching context. Rather than enforcing uniform certification, coaches and educators may emphasize different dimensions based on their career stage and coaching context. The model guides coaches to assess and respond to dynamic environments while fulfilling multiple roles. It also offers a practical pathway for developing qualified coaches, preventing injuries, reducing dropout, and revitalizing athletics on the international stage.

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Main Subjects

Archives in Sport Management and Leadership

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 19 May 2026

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History

  • Receive Date: 19 December 2025
  • Revise Date: 03 February 2026
  • Accept Date: 19 May 2026

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