Interpersonal communication is how people talk and share information with each other (Gouran et al., 2004). In sports psychology, it is about how players and coaches exchange both facts and emotions, using words and body language (Sullivan et al., 2014). This type of communication is crucial for building strong relationships between coaches and athletes (LaVoi, 2007; Vealey, 2005).
The COMPASS model is a way to understand different communication strategies (Rhind & Jowett, 2011a). It stands for Conflict management, Openness, Motivation, Preventative talks, Assurance, Support, and Social networks. These strategies help coaches and athletes work better together, handle problems, and create meaningful connections with each other and others around them. The COMPASS model was created to guide coaches and athletes in tough situations and improve their relationships (Rhind & Jowett, 2011b).
Gouran, D. S., Weithoff, W. E., & Doelger, J. A. (1994). Mastering communication (2nd ed.). Boston: Allyn and Bacon.
LaVoi. (2007). Interpersonal communication and conflict in the coach-athlete relationship. In S. Jowett, & D. Lavallee (Eds.), Social psychology in sport (pp. 29 40). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.
Rhind, D., & Jowett, S. (2011a). Working with coach-athlete relationships: Their quality and maintenance. In S. Mellalieu, & S. Hanton (Eds.), Professional practice in sport psychology: A review (pp. 219 248). London: Routledge.
Rhind, D. J. A., & Jowett, S. (2011b). Linking maintenance strategies to the quality of coach-athlete relationships. International Journal of Sport Psychology, 41, 55 68.
Sullivan, P., Rhind, D., & Jowett, S. (2014). Communication in sport teams. In A. Papaioannou, & D. Hackfort (Eds.), Routledge companion to sport and exercise psychology: Global perspectives and fundamental concepts (pp. 559 570). London: Routledge.
Vealey, R. S. (2005). Coaching for the inner edge. Morgantown, WV: Fitness Information Technologies.
