Compliance with the modern demands of the sports industry is a key factor in shaping the training of highly qualified specialists in the field of physical education and sports. Objective. To identify the main directions for improving the professional training of coaches and physical education specialists in light of the current developments in the field. Methods. The study followed an analytical approach, which determined the use of theoretical methods in pedagogical research. The following methods were applied: the bibliographic method for analyzing data from scientific and methodological literature on the research problem; the pedagogical modeling method to address issues related to the training of specialists in physical education and sports; and the forecasting method to propose solutions to the challenges in training future sports coaches. Results. The analysis revealed that current coach training programs need updates to their theoretical component as well as a stronger focus on practical-oriented learning. To achieve this, the introduction of innovative teaching methods is recommended, considering the interests and needs of all participants in the training process. In particular, attention should be paid to increasing employer engagement by more closely integrating the practical components of education, taking into account the specific demands of working in sports organizations. Significant attention should be given to motivating students by introducing modern technologies and encouraging practical activities. Moreover, a key issue remains the lack of interdisciplinarity in coach training, which affects their ability to adapt to the rapid changes in the sports industry. Integrating a competency-based approach may help develop more flexible and professionally oriented curricula. Conclusions. In the context of educational process modernization, it is necessary to integrate a competency-based approach and implement innovative teaching methods in the training of future coaches. Enhancing coach preparation requires adapting educational programs to current demands, involving employers in the training process, and promoting innovative and practice-oriented learning methods. This will improve the quality of specialist training and ensure their competitiveness in the labor market.
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