..... In its purest form, to coach is to communicate. Whether verbal or
nonverbal, passive or aggressive, technical or tactical, communication
is a vital part of what coaches do (31). Effective coaches recognize the
important role they play in influencing behavior, boosting confidence,
inciting passion, modeling fair play, and maximizing the performance of
their athletes (32). The way in which a sport practitioner communicates
with athletes, teaches a skill, reinforces a behavior, highlights an
error, sends an email, or delivers a halftime speech plays an important
role in the efficacy and esteem of the athletes under his or her watch.
Coaches are key figures in every sport regardless of the level of
competition. Millions of coaches practice the profession throughout the
world and have the means to positively, or negatively, impact athletes’
physical, social-emotional, and psychological well-being (1). Thoughtful
reflection combined with deliberate communicative acts from coaches and
sport leaders during these uncertain times present opportunities to
refine coaching methodology, enhance relationships with players and
families, contribute to sport, maintain mental health, and promote
optimism through sport.....
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