APPLIED COACHING RESEARCH JOURNAL 2020 , Vol . 6
British Canoeing Canoe Slalom Challenge Cards : A Pilot Study into Their Potential for Coach and Athlete Development
Craig Morris 1 and Richard Cheetham MBE 2
1
Technical Coach British Canoeing Podium Programme ; 2 Senior Fellow in Sports Coaching University of Winchester
Abstract The aim of this pilot study was to examine the impact of challenge cards used within canoe slalom . The rationale behind the creation and introduction of this resource was to consider how a non-linear approach to coaching could enhance practice design and the learning environment . The sample comprised five experienced coaches , employed full-time in either a coaching or coach developer role with a broad responsibility spanning paddlers and coaches working with beginners to those working with Olympic athletes . Findings indicated the cards showed the potential to enhance creativity , communication , empowerment and learning .
Keywords Creativity , empowerment , learning , reflection .
Introduction The evolution of practice design is often at the heart of coaching , with new ideas and innovations ever present in the pursuit of enhancing coaches ’ skill development . Lara-Bercial and Mallett ( 2016 ) acknowledged the vision of experienced coaches included the “ need to constantly innovate , to stay ahead of the pack ” ( p . 225 ). The Canoe Slalom Challenge Cards ( CSCC ) innovation sought to provide additional stimulus in coach education and coaching
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