College - Author 1

College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences

Department - Author 1

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Date

3-2011

Primary Advisor

Brian Greenwood

Abstract/Summary

Youth sport administrators and coaches strive to create a positive atmosphere to help young athletes develop as individuals. Yet, many youth sport organizations are challenged with few resources or expertise in developing training models for coaches. The YMCA of San Luis Obispo is a progressive organization committed to developing an effective training model for coaches. The purpose of this study was to assess the changes in YMCA basketball coaches’ behaviors and attitudes towards youth development principles associated with youth sports. This study was conducted through follow-up surveys with YMCA youth basketball coaches. Through the follow-up surveys it was found that coaches were able to develop new styles of coaching and strategies for interacting with their players based on training skits viewed at the pre-season meeting. Two major findings were the changes in the coaches’ feelings towards running for punishment and punishing all players for individual’s actions. Recommendations include expanding the training skits and developing a more comprehensive training program for coaches so they know what is expected, understand what athletes should be receiving, and have ongoing resources to call upon throughout the season.

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