Evaluator or Partner? An examination of the relationship between the sport supervisor and the head coach in NCAA Division I athletics
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17161/jis.v19i3.24303Keywords:
Leadership, Sport Supervisor, collegiate coachesAbstract
The relationship between the sport supervisor and head coach is a critical dyadic relationship within NCAA Division I athletics. The purpose of this study was to explore how the sport supervisor/head coach relationship is perceived by both NCAA Division I sport supervisors and head coaches utilizing the leader-member exchange theory. Through an interpretative phenomenological approach sport supervisors and head coaches from NCAA Division I institutions were interviewed. Findings affirmed sport supervisors serve as critical mediators in athletic departments and can shape the department’s internal climate through their relationships with head coaches. This study found trust to be foundational to high quality relationships between head coaches and sport supervisors. However, sport supervisors and head coaches have different perspectives on what builds a high-quality relationship outside of trust. Head coaches desire sport supervisors who show care and investment in the sport program and head coach and who are intentionally present (emotionally and physically). Sport supervisors desire head coaches to be transparent to build the trust and create a true partnership. This study elucidates critical needs of each party to nurture a successful relationship between the sport supervisor and the head coach in NCAA Division I athletics.
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