Coaches in Paralympic and disability sport (Para coaching) play a significant societal role by providing opportunities for disabled people in sport and physical activity. Such is its importance; this role is now recognised by the European Union and its professionalisation agenda. Therefore, drawing on Abbott`s theory of professions and Thomas` social relational model of disability, this original transnational study considers critically the characteristics of the European Para coaching workforce. Data collection followed a mixed methodology via an online survey of Para coaches ( N = 275). Combining quantitative and qualitative data, the analysis generated three higher order themes, "Exclusion, differentiated labour force and working contexts," "Uneven coach education and development opportunities" and "Impairment effect as a source of coaches professional knowledge." These themes illuminate Para coaching as a quasi-professional space shaped by specific workforce characteristics and those mediated by sporting domains. The findings and recommendations prompt significant considerations for policy makers, coach educators, and sport organisations.
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