Abstract
This study investigates communication experiences between Strength and Conditioning Coaches and Head Sport Coaches using a phenomenological approach. Sixteen Strength and Conditioning Coaches were surveyed, via Qualtrics, to obtain basic demographics and answer open-ended questions to understand communication experiences and strategies Strength and Conditioning Coaches use to have effective relationships, teamwork, and athletic performance with Head Sport Coaches. Participants were required to be currently working for a DI-DIII 4-year University in the United States, have at least 1-year of Strength and Conditioning experience, an accredit certification related to training athletes at the college level, and be at least 21 years of age to be in the study. Triangulation was used through a journal review and review of the researcher’s journal to compare the data in this study. Analysis of the open-ended questions, using a two-level coding system, and reviewing journals and researcher's journal showed that Strength and Conditioning Coaches who communicate openly, frequently, and honestly with Head Sport Coaches achieved effective communication, relationships, teamwork, and athletic performance. Head Sport Coaches who provide autonomy, are collaborative, and set clear expectations will also assist in this endeavor as well as provide a greater experience for the Strength and Conditioning Coach. Scheduling, regarding competition and training sessions, appeared in the survey to be a factor for stress for Head Sport Coaches and Strength and Conditioning Coaches, which may affect exercise training programs. Strength and Conditioning Coaches should be flexible to adjust training programs accordingly as schedule changes or conflicts may arise. Consistently testing of key performance indicators of student-athlete’s wellness, performance, and health and sharing that information with Head Sport Coaches were found to be effective strategies to ensure student-athletes were performing at a high level and reduce injuries. Face-to-face communication was found to be the favorite form of communication because it reduces confusion and interpretation from the Head Sport Coach.
Date Capstone Completed
5-2020
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Masters of Science in Leadership Education: Sport Management
Department
Leadership Education
Advisor
Raymond Martinez
Recommended Citation
Charles, Benjamin, "A Phenomenological Approach on Communication Experiences between Strength and Conditioning Coaches and Head Sport Coaches" (2020). Leadership Education Capstones. 27.
https://openriver.winona.edu/leadershipeducationcapstones/27
Included in
Educational Leadership Commons, Leadership Studies Commons, Organizational Communication Commons, Sports Sciences Commons, Sports Studies Commons
Comments
The author also goes by Ben Charles.