Coaching Masters athletes: Innovative workshops bridging the gap in adult sport education
Masters athletes, typically aged 35 and above (although different sports have different entry ages into masters sport), often surpass the peak performance years of their sport. Despite this, Masters athletes participate in rule-governed, organized sport activities that require formal registration and vary in intensity and competitiveness. Interestingly, while many adults hesitate to label themselves as…
Cirque du Soleil: Bridging the gap between athletes and artists
Cirque du Soleil is renowned for its breathtaking performances, combining artistry, athleticism, and storytelling to create unparalleled spectacles. But how does this world-class organization find and transform its talent? André Lachance, Senior Director Casting and Artist Contract Management at Cirque du Soleil, shared insights into the fascinating process of talent acquisition and development, where elite…
Coach education through Indigenous perspectives
Prioritizing Indigenous voices is key for sports organizations designing coach education. Collaborative design can enhance cultural pride and support coach development by incorporating Indigenous culture and history. Using traditional methods like storytelling and mentoring, collaborative design aligns with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, promoting Indigenous-led education and decolonizing coaching practices.
From Playground to Podium, and Back Again – Webinar
Take part in this free webinar from Commonwealth Sport featuring Wayne Parro, Director of International Programs with Coaching Association of Canada. The webinar will explore how athletes evolve as individuals and competitors, and why many choose to return as coaches. Participants will gain insights into coaching fundamentals, including practical tips, tools, and resources to help…
Leadership behaviour of youth coaches
In youth sports, coaches wield significant influence on athlete development. A recent study explores why coaches use specific leadership behaviours and their intended outcomes. Results reveal how different leadership styles correspond with distinct coaching objectives, aiding in enhancing our understanding of coaching practices for improved athlete experiences.
How coaches can increase athlete enjoyment and commitment
How a coach interacts with athletes can be significant predictor of athletes’ enjoyment and intentions to stay in sport. A study of 202 elite-level artistic swimmers from 22 countries showed that athletes under the guidance of democratic-style coaches reported elevated levels of athletic enjoyment and expressed greater intent to pursue their athletic careers.
Leadership behaviour of youth coaches
In youth sports, coaches wield significant influence on athlete development. A recent study explores why coaches use specific leadership behaviours and their intended outcomes. Results reveal how different leadership styles correspond with distinct coaching objectives, aiding in enhancing our understanding of coaching practices for improved athlete experiences.
Children’s swimming education
Aquatic safety is important, especially for youth looking to play water-based sport. Children’s swimming education programs have demonstrated significant improvements in aquatic readiness and motor coordination through assessments conducted before and after sessions. Children who focused on basic skills development exhibit enhanced aquatic competence, underscoring the value of personalized swimming instruction.
Motivating players though the pre-game talk
In team sports, the pre-game talk is a pivotal moment intended to motivate players before they step onto the pitch. According to recent research, coaches who balance game strategy with messages that support athletes’ autonomy (for example, facilitating athlete choice or opinions) and competence (for example, praising past performance) can enhance player motivation.
Creating safe spaces in recreational sport: A mental health perspective
Sports are often celebrated for their physical benefits, but they also play a crucial role in mental health. Participation in sports can improve mood, stress relief, and foster a sense of belonging (Bruner et al., 2018; Panza et al., 2020). However, while these benefits are well-documented, they aren’t always guaranteed. In fact, sport participation can…