Evaluation of Awareness, Use, and Perceptions of Injury Prevention Programs Among Youth Sport Coaches in Poland

TL;DR

This study examines how youth sports coaches in Poland are aware of and use injury prevention programs, finding that formal training strongly influences their adoption.

Contribution

The study identifies formal training as a key factor in the adoption of injury prevention programs by youth sports coaches in Poland.

Findings

Only 54.6% of coaches were aware of injury prevention programs (IPPs), and 47.5% of those aware used them.

Coaches trained via formal courses were over 20 times more likely to use IPPs than those learning from peers.

28.6% of coaches doubted the effectiveness of IPPs in reducing injury risk despite generally positive perceptions.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Injury prevention programs (IPPs) are evidence-based interventions that reduce musculoskeletal injuries in youth sports. Despite their proven benefits, the adoption of IPPs by coaches remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the awareness, usage, and perceptions of IPPs among youth sports coaches in Poland and to identify factors associated with their implementation. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a web-based survey tailored to youth sports coaches in Poland. Coaches of athletes aged 9–17 were recruited through targeted outreach to clubs and professional networks. The survey assessed IPP awareness, implementation, perceptions, and sources of information. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, non-parametric comparisons, Firth’s logistic regression, and cluster profiling. Results: Only 54.6% of coaches (59 out of 108) were aware of IPPs, and among them, just 47.5% reported using them. No significant associations were found between IPP use and demographic variables such as gender, sport, or place of residence. Coaches who were aware of IPPs were significantly younger than those who were unaware (p = 0.029). The information source was the strongest predictor of IPP implementation: coaches trained via formal courses were over 20 times more likely to use IPPs compared to those learning from peers (OR = 20.4, p < 0.001). While coaches generally perceived IPPs as beneficial for fitness and recovery, 28.6% expressed doubts about their effectiveness in reducing injury risk. Conclusions: Despite broadly positive beliefs, only 47.5% of coaches who were aware of IPPs reported using them. Formal training significantly enhances the likelihood of adoption. These findings emphasize the need for structured educational efforts and improved dissemination strategies to promote evidence-based injury prevention in youth sports settings.

Figures