Abstract

DOI: https://doi.org/10.58984/smb2602155s

The aim of this study was to investigate coaches’ perceived knowledge and competences and to examine their implications for sport management and human resource development (HRD). Using a quantitative, cross-sectional approach, data were collected from 216 basketball coaches through the Coaches’ Knowledge and Competence Questionnaire (CKCQ). Descriptive statistics, dependent correlation comparisons, and correlation analyses were employed to assess the relationships between professional, interpersonal, and intrapersonal domains of knowledge and overall coaching competences. The results indicate that coaches report high levels of knowledge across all domains, with strong positive interrelationships between them and overall competence. However, lower scores were identified in areas related to external communication and sports legislation, suggesting potential gaps in domains associated with broader organizational responsibilities. These findings suggest that coaching competence represents an integrated system of knowledge and skills, where intrapersonal reflection serves as the strongest statistical driver of perceived competence. Importantly, the study contributes to literature by positioning coaches not only as performance specialists but also as key agents of human resource development, influencing learning processes, organizational culture, and long-term sustainability within sport organizations.