Coaches’ perceptions of injuries in women’s football

Abstract

Despite the growth of women's football, limited research has examined injury profiles and at a non-elite level. This study aimed to evaluate coaches' perceptions of injuries and risk factors in senior non-elite women's football within the United Kingdom. A quantitative, cross-sectional, online survey was completed by 21 qualified coaches which examined perceived injury types, locations, mechanisms, risk factors, and the influence of the menstrual cycle. Data were analysed using frequency and descriptive statistics. Coaches perceived muscle strains/tears (81%) and ligament sprains/tears (67%) as the most common injuries, with the knee (86%), ankle (62%), and hamstrings (48%) identified as the most frequently injured sites. Injuries were believed to occur predominantly during match play (95%) and in-season (86%), with change of direction (67%) the most commonly reported mechanism. Previous injury (81%) was perceived as the primary internal risk factor, while playing surface (95%) was the leading external factor. Notably, 43% of coaches either considered the menstrual cycle insignificant to injury risk or were unsure of the different phases. Findings align with literature but reveal a substantial knowledge gap regarding female-specific factors, particularly the menstrual cycle. Coach education and targeted professional development are warranted to improve injury prevention strategies and support athlete health.