ABSTRACT
The chapter provides an introduction to leadership theory while also describing the importance of leadership development in sport, including team competition, administration of sport teams and leagues, and preparation of student-athletes for important roles in their communities and organizations. It also describes examples of exemplary leadership in sport and competitive endeavors by many different participants in the field, from team players to university presidents, from league executives to coaches. Sport provides many opportunities for men and women to demonstrate their leadership abilities as well as to develop and advance those leadership abilities. The chapter discusses situations where effective, ethical leadership has been lacking and the consequences of failed leadership to fans, sport institutions, players, and coaches. Sport clubs and teams not only are more successful if led by ethical leaders, but also the players, especially young athletes, can learn attributes and skills of ethical leadership by their participation on the team.
