These conclusions affirm that coaches play a vital role not only in athletic development but also in promoting health, education, inclusion and values in society. They stress that coaches — including volunteers, employed or self-employed — require relevant skills and competences to respond to evolving societal challenges and the rising expectations of sport participants.

 

Member States are invited to raise awareness of the value of coaching, enhance training and learning opportunities (both formal and non-formal), promote gender equality and diversity in coaching, and support the recognition and validation of non-formal and informal learning. Cooperation between the sport and education sectors is encouraged, along with use of modern technologies, online learning, and cross-sport approaches.

 

The European Commission and Member States are further asked to promote access to diversified learning paths, support online and offline learning, and ensure that coaches contribute to safe, inclusive and quality sport environments for all athletes and participants.

 

The conclusions recognise that the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the sport sector in terms of public health, economic activity, employment and social life. With sport organisations, clubs, events and business areas disrupted or suspended, the document underscores the urgency of recovery and resilience-building. It highlights the role of sport in citizens’ physical and mental health and calls for coordination, solidarity and cross-sectoral cooperation to protect and rebuild sport. 

 

Member States are invited to support the sector via existing EU programmes and recovery initiatives, ensure safe resumption of sport activities and promote physical activity during crisis conditions. 

 

The Commission is asked to promote flexible funding schemes, facilitate best-practice exchange, ensure data collection on impact, and support a coordinated exit and post-pandemic recovery strategy for sport.