Sport and Youth Development

Abstract

This entry highlights the contribution of sport to positive adolescent development. Specifically, the research evidence on youth development outcomes associated with sport participation is synthesized. Eleven key design principles are then described that promote and maximize adolescent development in this important social setting. An example sport-based youth development program, Learning in Fitness and Education through Sports (LiFEsports), is then highlighted to illustrate each of these design principles. Finally, emergent practice issues and research priorities related to sport and adolescent development are discussed.

Mental health training for high school coaches and athletic directors: Community-based participatory research to Coach Beyond

“…As such, we conducted a rigorous statewide needs assessment. University researchers supported this effort by modifying a previous survey used in Central Ohio to capture perspectives of coach training needs and interests across the state (see Anderson-Butcher et al; 7 Bates and Anderson-Butcher 8 ). State team members provided feedback on the items in the survey (e.g.…”

“…In the past two decades, the number of US high school sport coaches who are licensed educators has decreased substantially. State and national data suggest that 50–70% of school-based coaches are not educators 7 (e.g. certified teachers or school staff).…”

“…Indeed, a majority of high school coaches identify as community members, parents/caregivers, or volunteers. 6–8 For high school student-athletes, this means their coaches are not receiving the same training as educators on mental health, social–emotional health, whole child development, and school-based health policies and procedures (e.g. crisis intervention procedures or suicide protocols).…”