Factors Influencing Low Representation of Females in Coaching Regional Sports Teams at Senior High School Level in Ghana

Abstract

The study examined the factors influencing low representation of females in coaching regional sports teams in Ghana. A mixed method research design was employed, in which cross-sectional design and phenomenology were used in the study to conduct a survey on 424 respondents and three Regional P.E. coordinators. Questionnaires were used to collect data from the 424 female sports coaches and interview guides were also used to collect data from the three Regional P.E. coordinators. The study found that the selection criteria for female coaches was predominantly competency-based and most females were satisfied with such an approach. Moreover, most female coaches did not perform any coaching duties, but were rather assigned ancillary roles like handling food. Low female exposure to frontline activities, marital and family life-choices were the most potent hindrances to the careers of female coaches. The study recommended that aspiring female coaches should engage in rigorous self-development through professional courses in order to build their confidence and competence. Furthermore, the Ghana Education Service was advised to strategize an elaborate training programme for female coaches with flexible schedules that will allow them to combine household and family responsibilities with training. The achievements of successful female coaches were also proposed to be resonated frequently through special seminars, to encourage aspiring female coaches.