ABSTRACT
The assumption underlying this chapter is that coaching behaviour reflects a set of values about coaching, sport and human relationships more generally. This set of values or values framework has been termed a coaching philosophy and this, above all else, will inform coaching practice. Indeed, coaching philosophy is a central plank in understanding a coach’s behaviour and forms a core aspect of coach education (e.g. Cassidy et al. 2009; Gilbert & Trudel 2005; Nelson & Cushion 2006). The articulation of a ‘coaching philosophy’ and reflecting on its attributes offers much for understanding and developing coaching practice (Cassidy et al. 2009; Jenkins 2010) – and it is important that the conceptual framework is able to account for the relationship between values and practice. However, in reality, there remains a lack of engagement with this process, and this is due, in part, to what Cassidy et al. (2009) describe as “superficial and simplistic assumptions about the value of establishing and locating definitive philosophies” (p. 56).
