Supporting parents of male academy footballers: An action research study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop, implement, and evaluate a support program for parents of male youth academy footballers. Drawing on an action research methodology, underpinned by an interpretivist philosophical approach, this study comprised two action research cycles conducted over a 3-year period. The first action research cycle was the development, delivery, and evaluation of a six-session parent support program, along with three cultural changes. Following evaluation and reflection, the parent support program was modified to comprise a “Being a Football Parent” booklet, a 90-minute support session, and three further cultural changes. Overall, the results highlight the benefits of providing support to parents within youth academy football through a variety of modes and particularly targeting actions at the culture in which parents are situated. This study also demonstrates the value of using action research and having a practitioner-researcher embedded within organizations to facilitate such change. However, there were several challenges when implementing this parent support program and frustrations when creating change within the culture. Guidance for future parent support programs and further research are detailed. Lay summary: Two parent-support programs, comprising parent workshops and/or booklet alongside culture changes, were implemented and evaluated within a youth football academy. The program of support was positively received by parents and seen as beneficial. However, several challenges were encountered, particularly with implementing the cultural changes. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Parent support programs will be enhanced through providing parents with information alongside targeted cultural changes. Creating an environment that encourages parents to support each other enhances the effectiveness of workshops. Topics covered within sessions should be directed toward helping parents to manage their demands, build effective relationships with coaches, help parents to understand and meet their sons’ before, during, and after match needs, be aware of and learn to manage their emotions during a match, and adapt their support to their sons’ development