An analysis of coaching discourse effects on player satisfaction and participation within an amateur rugby club

Abstract

This study explores the effects of coaches’ discourse on players’ satisfaction and participation within an amateur rugby club. Using Foucauldian and relative coaching theory an attempt was made to understand the different effects on the diverse individuals within the environment. This study aims to enlighten the world of amateur sports against theory which has been applied within professional sports. An ethnographic study was conducted Combined with semi structured interviews over a pre-season period using all willing and eligible players, studying all teams within the club. Using the work of Foucault (1977) the discussion highlights the findings of the study on discourse, including areas of power and goal setting. Finally, implications of the study are discussed with suggestions for future research.