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ABSTRACT
The role of the Adventure Sports Coach (ASC) has recently become the focus of academic interest. Although research emerging from the field is beginning to diversify, the majority is limited in terms of sampling and methodology. The current study broadened the participant base by providing a demographic analysis of ASCs. An online survey of 504 participants captured key demographics, ‘coaching category’ and ‘coaching level’. Chi-square analysis investigated differences between genders. ASCs were predominantly male, relatively young, well-educated and well qualified. Despite many coaches holding high-level awards, their main practice was coaching beginners. A marked asymmetry existed between genders, with two-thirds of the sample being male. Female coaches were younger, less well qualified, and significantly under-represented in the higher coaching echelons. The lack of female coaches, and their clear under-representation in higher coaching categories is concerning. Recruitment, retention, and development of female ASCs is therefore a priority.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Ed Christian
Ed Christian is a Senior Lecturer in the Institute of Sport at the University of Chichester. He has a broad range ofexperience in adventure sports, specialising in paddlesport. He is an active coach and coach educator.
John S. Kelly
John Kelly is a Senior Lecturer in exercise physiology as the University of Chichester. He has been involved in adventure education for many years, and continues to be an active coach and instructor in mountain biking and diving.
Lucy V. Piggott
Lucy Piggott is a postdoctoral fellow at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, and advisor to the Anita White Foundation. Her research interests are broadly related to gender equity in sport, with her primary current focus being gender equity in sports governance.
James Hoare
James Hoare is an undergraduate student of Physical Education and Sports Coaching at the University of Chichester. Before attending university James held several senior positions in outdoor activity centres around Europe. He is an avid windsurfer.