Canadian University Sport Coaches’ Experiences Participating in a Social Learning Space on Topics Related to and Impacting Coach Mental Health

Abstract

Although high-performance coaching can be rewarding, it can also cause considerable performance, organizational, and personal stress, which over time, can diminish coaches’ mental health. There is a growing recognition that collective and community-based interventions that extend beyond the individual level are needed to support mental health, such as a social learning space. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to understand university coaches’ experiences participating in a season-long social learning space on topics related to and impacting coach mental health. Specifically, 10 Canadian University coaches engaged in six monthly sessions throughout one competitive season on topics related to mental health. Data collection consisted of pre- and postseason individual, semistructured interviews. Data were analyzed abductively using a reflexive thematic analysis. Results revealed that coaches reported positive experiences from participating in the social learning space, including the sense of community it created and the quality of the knowledge provided by the invited speakers. The environment encouraged sharing and provided insights into mental health, leadership, and the coach–athlete relationship. Coaches also acquired new resources, improved personal well-being, and enhanced coaching effectiveness. Overall, this initiative empowered coaches to become advocates for mental health—both for themselves and for their athletes and networks.