Sport coaches’ perceived role frames and philosophies

Abstract

Philosophy underpins all aspects of coaching and by creating a formal philosophy coaches may improve their coaching effectiveness. The role that coaches fulfil is based on their experience, knowledge, values, opinions and beliefs, but how coaches frame their role and form their philosophy is still unclear. This study investigates these aspects by interviewing coaches at various stages of their coaching career. It concludes that as coaches gain both knowledge and experience their ability to articulate a coherent philosophy and, more importantly, contextualize it for subsequent use in a more holistic coaching practice is enhanced. As a key element of coach development, the inclusion of a coaching philosophy, values clarification, and consideration of the coach’s responsibilities could improve their practice and better meet the needs of their charges.