Learning through reflection: values, conflicts, and role interactions of a youth sport coach

Abstract

This paper examines the use of reflective practices in the personal learning journey of a part-time, volunteer, youth sport coach. Using autoethnographic and reflective texts, the paper explores the centrality of values in coaching practice, the tensions and conflicts created by them and their denial, and the consequent impact on the coach’s behaviour and emotions. The use of reflection in a practice setting to gain a deeper understanding of those values and conflicts is discussed. The paper concludes with an assessment of the potential benefits of, and obstacles to, effective and critical reflective practices for the youth sport coach and offers some recommendations for further research.

Keywords:

• sports coaching
• values
• learning
• effective reflection