Do I need to have an active EC Sport Licence to qualify for a Coach Status?

Yes.

To obtain a Coach Status, Coaches must maintain an active EC Sport Licence. Sport Licence validity will be verified at time of application, issuance and renewal. It is the responsibility of the Coach to ensure that their EC Sport Licence does not lapse. Any level of Sport Licence is permitted for the purpose of holding a Coach Status and Coaches are encouraged to purchase the Sport Licence required for other activities (e.g. Horse Recordings, competition, etc).