There is a small but emerging body of literature that suggests Adventure Sports Coaches (such as Paddlesport coaches) operate as a sub-group of sports coaches that have a distinct set of working practices and beliefs. Although the evidence of this is currently limited, academics in the field suggest there is much to be learnt by exploring the learning journey and the subsequent belief systems of coaches from a range of disciplines.

In their recent research Matt and Ed have attempted to understand the learning journey of coaches by studying the identity, philosophy and developmental experiences of ‘high-level’ Adventure Sports Coaches. They have taken the view that if we know how ‘high-level’ coaches operate and how they have developed then perhaps we should use this knowledge to inform how we educate the next generation of coaches. In their presentation Matt and Ed will share their findings and discuss the potential implications of them to paddlesport coaches.

The presentation will conclude by raising questions for delegates to consider in light of their own learning journey. For instance, whose responsibility is it to craft your knowledge, and do your broader philosophical beliefs influence the way that you coach?