SPKN’s Six Pillars of Sports Leadership
Well-Being
& Performance
Communication & Team Culture
Skill & Coach Development
Nutrition
& PEDs
Sport Science
& Technology
Welcome to SPKN Sport Knowledge Center
Your central hub for verified sport knowledge.
As a nonprofit, SPKN provides sport leaders with knowledge and tools necessary to fully develop today’s athletes—mentally, physically, and emotionally.
Stay up to date on the latest sport science and coaching methods designed to enhance your skills and make a confident impact on your athletes’ performance, well-being, and health.
From recent interviews to new research, stay up on the latest from the world of sport. As the hub of sport knowledge and practice, we make sure you have the resources to push sport forward.
New Releases
All our research is curated and peer-reviewed giving you access to an unmatched library of information all in one place.
Latest Research
Exploring the Perceived Barriers of Effective Communication Within the Coach–Athlete Relationship: A Sample of Scandinavian Coaches and Athletes
Coaching is a process that guides development and is shaped by sound relationships between athletes and coaches. Interpersonal communication represents a mechanism for developing functional relationships. However, not all interactions between coaches and athletes are optimal, and limited research has attempted to understand the factors that impede the ability to engage in effective communication. This…
Consideration of Mental Health and Well-Being in High-Level Sport: When Will a Coach-Centered Approach Be Introduced?
In recent years, the conversation surrounding mental health in sports has primarily focused on athletes, with much less attention paid to the well-being of coaches. However, a growing body of research is beginning to highlight the significant stressors faced by coaches, particularly those in high-performance environments, and the detrimental effects these stressors can have on…
How Can We Make Research More Relevant for Sport Practice?
Contrasting Approaches in Research: Sport scientists often design studies that compare different training methods or models (e.g., interval vs. continuous exercise, polarized vs. pyramidal intensity distribution). These studies tend to conclude that one method is superior, but leading practitioners view these methods as complementary tools rather than mutually exclusive. Complexity of Athlete Development: No single…
Explore all SPKN’s original series. We cover everything from socio-cultural issues to gripping coach stories. Communication and Team Culture, Sport Psychology, Social Issues & Ethics, Sort Science & Tech, and more…Enjoy all our incredibly informative interviews. These series provide a framework for building the next generation of sport practice while inspiring a better future in sport through knowledge.
Original Series
All our research is curated and peer-reviewed giving you access to an unmatched library of information all in one place.
Latest Articles
Building Team Cohesion: Gratitude Practices for Athletes
In the world of sports, physical conditioning, tactical strategies, and mental toughness often take center stage. However, one overlooked yet transformative tool for building stronger teams and fostering individual athlete well-being is the practice of gratitude. Research increasingly highlights the power of gratitude in improving mental health, enhancing social bonds, and boosting performance in various…
Building Resilient Teams: Strategies for Coaches
Creating a positive team environment is foundational for any sports team’s success. A well-rounded, supportive culture improves performance, strengthens relationships, and helps athletes thrive both on and off the field. Coaches play a crucial role in establishing this environment through intentional actions and strategies. This article explores the key aspects of building a positive team…
The Power of Gratitude: Elevating Team Performance
Gratitude in sports is more than just a positive mindset—it’s a powerful tool that boosts athletes’ mental and emotional resilience, improves team dynamics, and enhances performance. While athletes often focus on physical training and skill development, cultivating gratitude can provide substantial psychological benefits that impact both individual and team success. Understanding Gratitude in a Sporting…
Resilience in Recovery: Inspirational Sports Stories
The road to recovery from significant injury can be long and challenging, but many athletes have demonstrated remarkable resilience in their journeys back to success. Below, we explore real-life examples of athletes who overcame substantial obstacles, the vital role of their support teams, and key lessons for coaches and athletes. Real-Life Examples of Athlete Recovery…
Social Issues
& Ethics