Date of Award

11-2-2015

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. John Caputo

Second Advisor

Dr. Heather Crandall

Abstract

The following study explores different approaches to leadership and various coaching styles of both assistant and head coaches at Gonzaga University. Using interpersonal communication and the cognitive dissonance theory as theoretical basis, this study asked Gonzaga coaches to discuss their communication styles with their athletes and to describe how critics voices and the pressure of winning has impacted the way they coach today. Data are taken from interviews from six coaches and five current athletes. Gonzaga athletes were interviewed to measure and gauge the effectiveness of each coaching staff’s communication level and coaching styles, both on and off the court/ field. Some coaches discovered early on in their careers that winning games wasn’t always the formula to becoming a successful coach. For most, they found that teaching with passion and building relationships with players was what truly left a lasting impression. Athletes found that their performance levels improved on the court/field when their coaches instilled confidence in them and when they developed a strong player/coach relationship that was built off trust. Coaches that understood how to push their athletes out of their comfort zones and that found ways to help their athletes transition from the high school level to the collegiate level were found to be the most effective from their currents players.

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