The First Step : Assessing the Coaching Philosophies of Pre - service Coaches

Coaches are influential in creating positive and achievementoriented sport environments and the development of a sound philosophy is the key to successful coaching (Martens, 2004). Yet, few coaches spend significant time early in their careers developing and modifying their philosophical beliefs (Wilcox & Trudel, 1998). While coaching educators have consistently recognized the importance of a well-honed coaching philosophy, little research has examined the beliefs of pre-service coaches. Therefore, this study examined written coaching philosophy statements of 35 pre-service coaches (PSCs) prior to enrollment in an intensive 15week coaching education course. An inductive content analysis revealed several emergent dimensions and priorities: Coaching Behavior, Defining Success, Development, Expectations, Fun, Life Lessons Learned Through Sport, and Relationships. It was clear that these young coaches have strong expectations of the sport experience. What was less clear was their role in creating positive sport experiences, which highlights the importance of coaching education in transforming philosophy into action.