Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between coaching styles, team communication, and sport motivation as they relate to the success of athletes and their teams. By delving into the ways coaches communicate their strategies, provide feedback, and motivate athletes, this research aims to uncover relationships between leadership approaches and team dynamics. The study also delves into intra-team communication, examining its role in fostering collaboration and morale while highlighting its impact on motivation and performance. To gather data, an electronic survey was sent out to student-athletes at The College of Wooster. Findings indicate there was no difference in motivation between male and female athletes, nor between athletes who had played their sport for a long period of time compared to those who had not. It was also found that most athletes prefer a more open coaching style rather than a dictatorial style.One major implication of this study is that student-athletes have responsibilities outside of their sports, so they thrive in environments with social support and positive communications.

Advisor

Johnson, Michelle

Department

Communication Studies

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Keywords

coaching styles, team communication, sport motivation, team cohesion

Publication Date

2025

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

Download

Share

COinS
 

© Copyright 2025 Colin Stoner