Research Framework
The primary theoretical frameworks utilized for the PLC series are:
- Achievement Goal Theory (Nicholls, Ames, Dweck, Duda)
- Coach Created Motivational Climate (Duda, Roberts, Miller, Treasure)
- Coach-Athlete Relationship (LaVoi, Jowett & colleagues)
- Parent Initiated Motivational Climate (Duda, White)
- Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan)
- Moral Development (Kohlberg, Power, Higgins, Rest, Narvaez)
- Integrated Ethical Education (Narvaez)
- Expertise (Sternberg)
The primary ideas of the curriculum propose that for athlete flourishing and achievement to occur, a coach must possess expertise to carry out and develop the following:
- A caring coach-athlete relationship
- A caring climate amongst the team/community members, fostering a sense of belonging
- Athlete ethical expertise
- Achievement (athletic competence & achievement)
Goals of PLC series:
- To build consensus among sport stakeholders regarding PLC goals.
- To define Champion behaviors for athletes, parents, and coaches.
Champions are not born, Champions GROW with guidance from adults.
- Goal Focused- Embraces Mastery orientation (competence)
- Respects Others-Plays fairly, treats others with respect, committed to common good (relationships/care)
- Owns their decisions and the game, makes responsible decisions & (autonomy/self directed choices)
- Wins with integrity
- To develop coaches and parents expertise to successfully build a climate in youth sports that GROWs Champions and supports athletes in their ethical pursuit of excellence
Mastery Motivational climate + “Moral” climate = Champion Climate