Understanding athletic identity—as both a coach and a player—is crucial to developing a comprehensive understanding of the athlete. Athletic identity, as described by Edison et al. (2021), refers to the degree of personal connection an individual has to sport. While…
Coaches play a crucial role in the holistic development of athletes, impacting their personal and professional growth in significant ways. By focusing on building positive relationships, fostering a healthy team environment, balancing athletic and personal development, and recognizing the individual needs of athletes, coaches can nurture and positively influence their athletes' identities.
Sport knowledge refers to the comprehensive understanding of the sport, it goes beyond knowing its rules, techniques, strategies, and includes historical context, social influences, and the science infused within it. When coaches possess in-depth knowledge of their sport, they become trusted sources of information and guidance for their athletes. This expertise helps shape the athlete's identity, as they look up to their coach as a role model and mentor.