Coaching in Northern Canadian Communities: Reflections of Elite Coaches

This study addressed geographical uniqueness in relation to elite coaching. The study explores the complexities associated to coaching in northern Canadian communities, and how unique geographical surroundings can affect coaching success. The views of fourteen National and International elite coaches from different northern Canadian communities are included within the study. The respondents were from 9 different sport backgrounds and averaged 17.1 years of coaching experience (range: 8-30 years). Data were gathered using a structured open-ended questionnaire, a focus group, and a follow-up in-depth semi-structured interview. Content was analyzed to uncover emergent themes. Based on the respondents’ views, there is indication that despite numerous adversities, rural coaches experience advantages that are unavailable in larger urban centers. Precisely, there is evidence that northern Canadian coaches acquire unique skills while responding to the demands placed on them within their unique communities. Generalizations in regards to coaching development strategies across physical locations are questioned following the findings of the current study.

Key Points

• The study explores the complexities associated with coaching in northern Canadian communities and how unique geographical surroundings can affect coaching success.
• From the respondents’ views, there is indication that northern Canadian elite coaches are subject to numerous adversities.
• Despite numerous adversities, northern Canadian elite coaches experience advantages that are unavailable in larger urban centers.
• Including context specificity within the elite coaching literature could help to better understand this profession.

Key words: Coaching, contextual factors, geography, adversities, advantages