EXPLORING THE COACH-ANALYST RELATIONSHIP IN ELITE SOCCER – A CASE STUDY AT READING FOOTBALL CLUB

Abstract

Aiming to explore the coach-analyst relationship in elite soccer with a view to better understanding how to optimise the support provided to athletes. The study was conducted over a period of six months involving data collection through reflective journals and semi-structured interviews with both coaches and analysts. A dearth of previous research specific to the relationships being investigated in this instance led to an understanding and adaptation of current research in order to contextualise the study. A period of time was allowed for working relationships to develop between the researcher and participants prior to interviews being conducted along with a thorough brief and debrief being provided in order to ensure information being offered was as genuine and in depth as possible. Both inductive and deductive analysis techniques were used in order to overcome the lack of specific research currently available, resulting in a comprehensive understanding of the relationships in place. Results suggested that whilst potential barriers undoubtedly exist, and some will continue to do so due to the varying demands within the environment, there are also focal points and routes of thinking which could allow the relationship to overcome these and flourish for the benefit of all concerned.