Coach experience and age-category effects on young soccer players training environment: an exploratory study on perceived coaching behavior in Timor-Leste

The objective of this investigation was to analyse soccer player’s perception of coaching behavior in Timor-Leste, comparing coaching experience (experienced vs inexperienced coaches) and age-categories (under-10 vs under-14 male). Data was collected using the Coach Behavior Assessment System questionnaire. Two experienced coaches and three inexperienced coaches from five different soccer clubs were subjects of the investigation. Seventy-five under-10 and one hundred and forty-two under-14 players responded the questionnaire. A Kruskal-Wallis test was completed to evaluate differences between the two scenarios. Statistical differences were observed in inexperienced coaches for mistakes/errors and misbehaviors as rated by the players, and in experienced coaches for general technical instruction. Under-14 players revealed significantly higher scores to the opposing age group for all spontaneous behaviors and for positive reinforcement, mistake-contingent encouragement, and mistake-contingent technical instruction, while Under-10s rated higher behaviors for keeping control. Timorese’s soccer coaches should promote a positive and reinforced training environment that can be focused on player’s progress. It is recommended a more holistic approach to coach educational programs.