Coaching as a profession: The Brazilian scene

Abstract

In Brazil, the coaching profession is recognized and regulated by federal law, which stipulates that only individuals with a higher-education diploma in physical education and registration with the professional council are allowed to work in the field. This essay aims to highlight the description of the law and standards of coaching within Brazil, including preparation and legal aspects. The actual legislation in the country is responsible for the political conception of the activity of the coach and for the coaches’ professional category. The Brazilian legal condition about coaching as a profession can be particular to the country, but the debate on these issues go beyond geographical limits. This explanation may contribute to the debate on the professionalization of sport coaching. It should be clarified that this article does not claim to advocate for a specific way of dealing with the matter but seeks to encourage further research.