EFFECTIVE PRACTICES OF COACHING DISABILITY SPORT

Abstract

One of the most critical factors of sport performance is coaching. In this review paper we examine the pertinent literature on the historical trends in disability sport to provide discussion on the following: a) the negative ramifications (e.g., over-training, failing to taper) athletes often experience when they perform without a coach, b) the perceived challenges (e.g., not understanding an athlete's disability) of disability sport coaching of high-level coaches, c) the positive outcomes athletes experience (e.g., increased motivation and autonomy) when they have good quality coaching, and d) the necessary competencies (e.g., understanding the psychology of coaching) to be an effective disability sport coach. We also provide theory based suggestions for future research. ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR