A comparison between how much of an effect a coach has on the dependency levels of elite basketballers and netballers

Abstract

Effective communication is a challenge that many coaches face with their athletes, however, it is also the most important aspect, as it helps build strong relationships. Dorfman (2003) reinforces that 'good relationships are established through effective communication' (p.40). Additionally, there are many issues surrounding the giving of feedback, one being that after every performance the athlete becomes highly dependent upon the coach for feedback. McMorris and Hale (2006) believe that coaches should aim to get their athletes using their intrinsic feedback and not become fully dependent upon extrinsic feedback. Consequently, the focus of the study was a comparison between how much of an effect a coach has on the dependency levels of elite basketballers and netballers. To address this, semi-structured interviews were carried out on a number of elite basketball and netball players, in addition to an elite basketball and netball coach. The interview was broken up into four sections which assisted the academic literature and provided a more in-depth understanding of the communication and feedback process. The interviews were transcribed and data analysis conducted, generating a very comparable but controversial set of results. The study illustrated a number of key themes that highlight how dependent athletes are upon feedback, from their coach following performance. The conclusion summarised that athletes are very reliant upon their coach for feedback and believe it is necessary to produce an effective performance. Both positive and negative feedback are vital in addition to tactical instruction and encouragement. This study offers an insight to the findings that originated from the research, in addition to recommendations for further investigations.