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Coaches’ ability to support elite and adolescent soccer players throughout their menstrual cycle

Donnelly, Julia; Macrae, Eilidh; Valentin, Stephanie; White, Andrew; Easton, Chris; Forrest (née Whyte), Laura J.

Authors

Julia Donnelly

Eilidh Macrae

Andrew White

Chris Easton

Laura J. Forrest (née Whyte)



Abstract

Female soccer players report that the menstrual cycle (MC) can negatively impact sporting performance, with barriers identified in communicating their MC experiences to coaches and support staff. Whilst research is growing, there are few studies exploring the coaching staff perspective in soccer, and none from those at the youth level. The aim was to explore soccer coaches’ awareness, perceptions and experiences of the MC and the perceived impact on performance. Thirteen coaches (female n = 4; male n = 9, aged 33 ± 9 years) from Scottish elite adult and youth soccer participated in individual semi-structured interviews (average interview time 39 ± 11 min). Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim, with reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) performed. RTA generated three key themes from 232 meaning units: environment and culture, coach–athlete dynamic, and coach support and education. Coaches perceived a societal culture of the MC being hidden, or taboo, with similar barriers noted within the club environment. Coaches were often embarrassed to discuss the MC with players and believed players were embarrassed. Communication differed depending on the coach–athlete relationship, with trust and familiarity cited as improving comfort in communication. Coach awareness and understanding of the MC both generally and within a sporting context influenced their perceived ability to communicate and support players. Findings highlight the need to support coaches by providing MC education, and practical guidance on how to support players’ health and wellbeing. Improved confidence in communication should allow players to feel supported and normalise conversations about the MC.

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Apr 26, 2024
Online Publication Date May 22, 2024
Deposit Date May 24, 2024
Publicly Available Date May 24, 2024
Print ISSN 1747-9541
Publisher SAGE Publications
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
DOI https://doi.org/10.1177/17479541241255280
Keywords Association football, communication, female athlete, gender, youth sport

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