Coach vulnerability: Embracing what’s human, preventing what’s harmful

Coach vulnerability: Embracing what’s human, preventing what’s harmful

Authors: Cornelia Blank, Laurie Patterson & Katharina Gatterer

First Published: 02 February 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.71006/uejl3175

Abstract

In this article, the concept of ‘vulnerability’ is thoroughly explored within biathlon coaching contexts. Concrete examples are presented, drawn from biathlon coaches collaborated with previously, illustrating specific situations that could heighten coach vulnerability along with practical actions that can be implemented to effectively minimise vulnerability in those scenarios.

Content