Coaching Education and Career Transition Pathways: Comparative Perspectives from Nigeria and the United States
Abstract
This study provides a rigorous comparative analysis of coaching education systems and athlete career transition pathways within two contrasting national sport environments. The purpose of the research was to examine how governance structures, institutional frameworks, socio-economic conditions, and global professional standards influence the development, regulation, and sustainability of coaching as a profession. Drawing upon a qualitative comparative design, the study synthesised theoretical perspectives, policy analyses, and existing empirical scholarship to evaluate certification models, professionalisation processes, and transition mechanisms from athletic participation to coaching practice. The findings reveal substantial structural divergence between the two contexts. One system is characterised by decentralised governance, diversified funding streams, strong integration with higher education, and research-informed certification pathways. The other reflects a more centralised administrative structure shaped by infrastructural limitations, evolving policy reforms, and emerging institutional capacity. Despite these differences, both contexts recognise the strategic importance of coaching in athlete development, national performance, and broader social outcomes. Across both settings, competency-based accreditation, continuous professional development, and athlete-centred coaching philosophies emerge as foundational pillars of effective practice. The study further identifies digital transformation, international benchmarking, and inclusive governance reforms as significant contemporary drivers reshaping coaching education. Importantly, the analysis demonstrates that successful professionalisation depends not solely on financial investment but on policy coherence, institutional collaboration, and strategic foresight. It is recommended that policymakers strengthen governance coordination, formalise structured athlete transition programmes, deepen higher education partnerships, and invest in digital infrastructure to enhance accessibility and quality assurance. Emphasis on equity, safeguarding, and workforce sustainability remains essential for long-term resilience.
Keywords
Coaching Education; Career Transition; Sport Governance; Professionalisation; Comparative Sport Policy; Athlete Development.
Citations
IRE Journals:
Chuks Sunday Ogbona, Thomas Jerome Yeboah, Mforchive Abdoulaye Bobga, Kenneth Boakye "Coaching Education and Career Transition Pathways: Comparative Perspectives from Nigeria and the United States" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 4 Issue 5 2020 Page 367-385
IEEE:
Chuks Sunday Ogbona, Thomas Jerome Yeboah, Mforchive Abdoulaye Bobga, Kenneth Boakye
"Coaching Education and Career Transition Pathways: Comparative Perspectives from Nigeria and the United States" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 4(5)
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