ABSTRACT
Strength and conditioning (S&C) is an emerging support service employed by many sports organisations to enhance performance and reduce the risk of injury. However, the responsibilities of a modern S&C coach extend far beyond that of testing, evaluation and prescription of appropriate programmes. The role of a coach is to improve athletes’ physical, mental and emotional performance in preparation for sporting competition. It is suggested that an effective coach requires professional knowledge (expert subject knowledge), interpersonal knowledge (ability to communicate with relevant personnel) and intrapersonal knowledge (ability to critically self reflect). Secondly, effective coaches focus on improving an athlete’s competence, confidence, connection and character. In summary, it is clear that the role of an S&C professional is multifaceted and fundamentally requires effective attitudes, behaviors and skills of coaching and the understanding and application of various sport science disciplines to be successful. This chapter will discuss these themes in detail.
