Traits ranked by track and field coaches to improve coaching
Abstract
This study explored traits of characteristics of track and field coaches to promote a better understanding of how to become an effective track and field coach. Findings from the project have the potential to enhance coaching development and improve skills of track and field coaches of various levels. The exploration was inspired by previous studies that suggested characteristics of coaches that were classified as effective, successful, elite, or experts. A quantitative design was utilized in a survey, which was completed by 18 Division III coaches in the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Conference. Participants included assistant coaches, head coaches, and various event coaches (i.e. sprints, jumps, throws, etc.) determined by demographic information that was collected for assessment. Participants ranked a list of traits for six characteristics from most important to least important. Comparisons were made among the rankings of each trait to learn coaches' perceptions of the most beneficial traits. The most important trait for each characteristic was analyzed collectively, and determined by examining the mode of participants' rankings. There were no discernible associations found between how traits were ranked and any of the demographic information collected. The results of this study suggest quality of practices, level of trust, intrinsic motivation, hard work, life skills, and coaching experience are the most significant traits for a coach to reflect upon to enhance their development. The project also provides track and field coaches seeking to improve their coaching skills with characteristics of effective coaches.
Subject
Track and field--Coaching
Coaching (Athletics)
Permanent Link
http://digital.library.wisc.edu/1793/74512Description
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