Whether you’re guiding a group of energetic under-10s on the football pitch or leading a mixed-ability running club session, staying up to date with modern coaching practices is key to keeping things fresh and effective. Let’s explore five trending coaching approaches that are shaping the way we support athletes of all ages and abilities in 2024. If you’re searching for smarter ways to engage your players, manage their wellbeing, or improve your own coaching confidence  – you’re in the right place.

1. Positive Psychology in Sport Coaching

This year, there’s a growing focus on using positive psychology in sport to build resilience, confidence and enjoyment. For coaches like Kerry who are working with kids and teens, this is a game changer.

• How can this help? Athletes are more likely to stay engaged when they feel seen, supported and empowered.
• Practical tip: Reinforce effort over outcome. Highlight what your players did well, not just the score.
• Try this: End sessions with a “What went well?” reflection to invite positive self-talk.

And this doesn’t only apply to young athletes – Dan, for example, might find that boosting confidence in adult beginners can be the difference between someone returning next week or dropping out altogether.

2. Trauma-Informed Coaching

More clubs are recognising the importance of mental health and emotional support in sport environments. Being trauma-aware means creating a safer space for athletes who may face stress, anxiety or difficult life circumstances.

If you’ve Googled “how to deal with anxious players” or noticed emotional outbursts on your team, this approach can help. It encourages greater empathy, consistent routines, and clear communication.

• For Children: Use predictable session formats to reduce anxiety in young players.
• For Adults: Foster non-judgmental feedback so hesitant adults don’t feel pressured to perform.

3. Micro-Coaching and Time-Smart Strategies

Time is a luxury many volunteer coaches don’t have. That’s why micro-coaching – short, focused skill bursts, is gaining ground. Instead of packing in everything at once, you target one small skill per session.

This strategy respects both your prep time and your athletes’ learning pace. Plus, it’s easier to stay on top of if you’re juggling coaching with work or family commitments.

• Try this: Dedicate 10 minutes of your session to a core skill, then revisit it weekly.
• For Coaches of Kids: Build sessions around one key concept like “finding space” or “sharing the ball.”
• For Coaches of Adults: Use rotation drills so adults can self-direct and get extra reps without constant supervision.

4. Inclusive Coaching: Embracing Diversity

The push for more inclusive coaching environments continues in 2024. That means understanding how to welcome athletes of different ages, abilities, backgrounds, and identities – and adapting your sessions to match.

This is especially relevant for anyone coaching adult beginners, mixed-ability groups, or neurodiverse athletes.

• Coaching Adults: Use task-based goals, like “complete X reps,” instead of outcome-based ones like “beat your partner.”
• Generally coaching: Explore inclusive methods from Paralympic or community sports and apply the best bits to your setting.

Great coaching starts with great listening. Ask players what helps them feel safe, supported and successful – then shape your approach accordingly.

5. Reflective Coaching Practice

This year, there’s a strong emphasis on coaching the coach. It’s all about stepping back and reflecting on what’s working — and what isn’t.

Whether you’re battling self-doubt or just want to level up your sessions, reflective coaching is a powerful tool. You don’t need to be writing essays – sometimes, a quick voice memo or journal note post-session does the trick.

• Question ideas: What surprised me today? Who thrived? Who struggled – and why?
• For the Curious Coach: Connect with coaches from other sports to share perspectives. Cross-pollination opens up new ways of thinking!

Want a simple structure? The Gibbs Reflective Cycle is a great starting point.

Final Thought

Coaching isn’t just about drills and tactics – it’s about connection, confidence building, and lifelong learning. Whether you’re juggling parent expectations, managing complex emotions on the pitch, or simply trying to keep your team turning up week after week – these trends can guide you toward a more enjoyable, effective and inclusive environment.

Embrace small changes. Stay curious. And remember, the best coaches are always learning.