An intensive longitudinal investigation of a parent–coach’s practices and strategies ‘in action’; challenges and opportunities

Sports coaching and sport psychology researchers have explored the challenges for parents who undertake the role of coach. Arising from previously research on the parent–coach, a number of strategies have been suggested to assist parent–coaches to be more effective as they negotiate the dual roles. No research has examined the issues, nuances and possibilities of these strategies and practices “in action” from the perspective of the parent–coach. An intensive longitudinal diary approach was used by one parent–coach to document and reflect on coaching practice when applying the researcher proposed strategies. This study adds to scholarship that examines the dual roles of the parent–coach by outlining what works and what does not in terms of previously outlined strategies. We found that the unproblematic presentation of the two roles, in previous research, fails to prepare the prospective parent coach for the complexity of managing the dual roles.