Fields of growth Perspectives of coaches and youth on development through sport

This research investigates how youth sport coaches and young athletes experience development across diverse environments, focusing on the influence of contextual factors. It addresses the central question: How do coaches and youth from various sport settings experience the process and impact of development through sport?Based on observations and interviews with 45 coaches, the study reveals that while not all coaches articulate pedagogical goals clearly, many act as mentors and educators, aligning with pedagogical theory. Their approaches vary by context: performance-oriented environments emphasize individual competence, vulnerable settings prioritize social values like discipline and resilience, and affluent contexts stress enjoyment and autonomy. Coaching styles also differ, with participatory methods more common in affluent and performance settings, and directive styles more typical with vulnerable youth.
Interviews with 38 youth athletes (aged 15–18) show that sport fosters personal growth, social connection, and well-being. Coaching preferences differ by background—disadvantaged youth value structured, caring guidance, while affluent youth prefer participatory styles. Youth also describe how their ability to convert sport experiences into life lessons depends on personal motivation, coaching quality, team dynamics, and home support. Transfer of sport-learned competencies is strongest when contexts are perceived as similar and allow autonomy.
Overall, the study shows that both coaches and youth actively shape their sport environments. Contextual factors such as socioeconomic background and competition level significantly affect perceptions and outcomes. The findings call for coach training and club support that are sensitive to local contexts, promoting a sport pedagogy that supports both athletic and personal development.