Applied Coaching Research Journal Research Journal 5 | Page 27

APPLIED COACHING RESEARCH JOURNAL 2020, Vol. 5
football, boxing and netball. Each coach was
provided with a bespoke learning programme
which involved a combination of:
• peer mentoring
APPLIED COACHING RESEARCH JOURNAL 2020, Vol. 5
Results
For the purpose of this paper, one case study
is shared. The case study shows the impact of
the programme on Kallam and demonstrates
how a bespoke coach mentoring scheme can
literally change a life.
• access to local courses and CPD
opportunities
• team teaching
• formal coaching qualifications.
The mix of learning opportunities were
dependent on the motivations and intended
outcomes of each coach. The coaches
were supported by a mentor (known as a
CoachMate). These mentors were carefully
selected to undertake a diverse peer
mentoring role, including regular meetings
with each coach, accompanying coaches
to CPD events and coaching qualifications,
delivering coaching sessions with, and
alongside the coach, and supporting each
coach via digital communications.
Method
The experience of each coach on the
programme was captured via an online
questionnaire. Coaches completed a
questionnaire at the start of the programme
and then further questionnaires at each
learning experience or interaction with their
mentor. The questionnaires were completed
face-to-face by the coach and the mentor,
and logged on the online platform. The
questionnaires contained a series of questions
that measured confidence, competence,
character, connection and creativity. Images
were also used to capture progress.
Drawing on the data collected to date, five
case studies have been developed. These case
studies are narratively based and describe
the experience of the coach. The case studies
were developed using data from the online
questionnaire and through interactions with
the mentor.
Kallam’s story
Kallam is from a family involved in
serial criminal activity. After building
a relationship with his mentor, Kallam
disclosed that he wanted to change his
own future and become a coach and
role model in his community. Over a
10-month period, Kallam engaged in
over 40 hours of support. These 40
hours mostly comprised of both digital
and face-to-face peer mentoring by his
mentor. He also undertook a Level 1
coaching qualification in football and
a Level 2 qualification in Multi-sports,
as well as a safeguarding course and
first aid qualification. He is now a
qualified and paid community coach
working with other hard to reach
young people. Recently, Kallam was
recognised by West Midlands Police
as a community role model. The
#CoachMate Connectors programme
has been instrumental in enabling
Kallam to change his life and influence
the lives of others.
Self-report data from the questionnaire
showed an improvement in Kallam’s
confidence and competence to coach. In
Kallam’s own words:
“I never knew this could be a job, and
although many people wanted me to fail,
being rewarded and recognised for making a
difference is something I’m really proud of.”
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