On Understanding the Links between Coach Leadership and Coach-Athlete Relationship

Additional systematic research is needed in understanding the links between coach leadership and coach-athlete relationship. This research has theoretical, empirical, and practical significance. It is still unclear: (a) how and why athletes perform at various levels of performance for different coaches, or how and why coaches’ behaviours produce superior athletic performance, and (b) what are the specific actions or behaviours of coaches that nurture a positive and trusting relationship with their athletes, or what do coaches do to facilitate good quality relationships with each athlete?

The answers to these questions are important because they can unveil the processes between coach behaviours and athlete outcomes (e.g., performance, satisfaction, motivation, confidence), and provide an explanation about the ways in which coaches establish and develop varied relationship qualities with different athletes. The proposed research will aim to bring together leadership and relationship literatures in an endeavour to generate theoretically-driven and empirically-based knowledge and understanding that will, in turn, help provide rigorous and comprehensive guidelines for effective coaching practice.

Entry Requirements
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in psychology or sport science (with a strong psychology element) or other relevant area. An interest in quantitative research is preferred.

A relevant Master’s degree and / or experience in one or more of the following will be an advantage: Sport Psychology, Coaching, Business.