The Hellenic Federation of Sports Coaches and Trainers (POPA) is a professional association representing coaches across Olympic and non-Olympic sports in Greece. Founded in 2010, POPA works to bring Greek sports coaches together to advance their shared professional, social and educational interests.
About POPA
POPA is a secondary professional association representing coaches from a wide range of sports across Greece. Its membership includes coaches’ associations from Sailing, Canoe-Kayak, Swimming, Water Polo, Synchronised Swimming, Diving, Weightlifting, Cycling, Skiing, Tennis, Badminton, Fencing and Taekwondo, as well as coaches working with athletes with disabilities.
Through advocacy, education and collaboration, POPA works to strengthen the position of coaches within Greek sport and promote fair professional rights and opportunities for the coaching community.
The organisation also engages in European and international initiatives designed to strengthen coaching standards, policies and professional development.
Alignment with ICCE
POPA’s work aligns closely with ICCE’s mission to lead and develop sport coaching globally through its commitment to international collaboration, coach development and the continued professionalisation of coaching.
POPA contributed to the PEAK EU-Handbook, an English-language framework designed to support the development of coaching policies and governance across Europe. The organisation also participated in the CoachForce21 EU project, contributing information about the coaching landscape and relevant legislation.
Through these initiatives and its wider advocacy work, POPA supports the development of stronger coaching systems while promoting the role and professional rights of coaches in Greece.
ICCE Membership Impact
“POPA partners with groups like the International Council for Coaching Excellence (ICCE) and has coordinated with international coaches to advance the profession globally.”
— POPA Hellenic Federation of Sports Coaches and Trainers
ICCE membership provides POPA with opportunities for international cooperation and the exchange of knowledge around coaching standards, policy and professional development.
This international connection complements POPA’s work in European projects such as the PEAK EU-Handbook and supports its continued efforts to strengthen the coaching profession and promote the interests of coaches.
Featured Initiative
POPA is currently highlighting its engagement at the highest levels of Greek sport and public life, including a meeting with the President of the Hellenic Republic focused on promoting the voice and role of coaches.
The meeting represents POPA’s continued efforts to ensure that coaches and their professional interests are represented within wider discussions surrounding sport in Greece.
POPA is also continuing the development of the CORE project as part of its wider work to support coaches and advance the coaching profession.
Learn more about POPA’s meeting with the President of the Hellenic Republic:
https://www.presidency.gr/synantisi-me-antiprosopeia-tis-panellinias-omospondias-proponiton-athlimaton/
Connect With POPA
Facebook – ΠΟΠΑ POPA
Website – https://popa.gr/el/
Email – info@popa.gr / popa.allsports@gmail.com
