Coaching Life Skills and Promoting Positive Youth Development: A Study of Accomplished Female High School Team Sport Coaches

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the personal experiences, philosophies, attitudes, opinions, beliefs, values, and practices of successful female high school team sports coaches in the southeastern U.S. area to better understand effective coaching practices for youth sports. More specifically, to better comprehend the complexities of youth coaching as it pertains to teaching life skills and promoting positive youth development. Also, to understand why and how successful female high school coaches use positive youth development to their advantage in coaching effectiveness in general. After thorough analysis of seven interviews from accomplished female high school coaches, it is apparent that all of the coaches that participated believe that life skills, positive youth development, and having a strong coach/athlete relationship is important for the success of the team.