Peer Interactions throughout Coach Development

Peer interactions among coaches are essential as these experiences result in enhanced knowledge and understanding of the sport of interest for the coach (Trudel & Gilbert, 2006). Lave and Wenger (1991) reported individuals learn appropriate professional behavior and interaction through other individuals in their field (legitimate peripheral participation). The purpose of this study was to analyze the peer interactions of coaches as they developed toward expertise. Six coaches were interviewed and observed during two coaching clinics and an inductive analysis of the data revealed as coaches learned how to interact with each other, their identity adapted to the specific situation. As novice coaches attempted to progress toward expertise, their interactions with other coaches progressed from passive listeners to involved participants in discussion. This supported Lave and Wenger's (1991) contention that legitimate peripheral participation serves as a progression for individuals to learn how to access knowledge and understanding.