The Politics and Policy of Community Sport Coaching

Abstract

This chapter examines the key aspects of the politics and policy of community sport coaching in England. The work of sport coaches generally, and community sport coaches in particular, has undoubtedly been affected by recent changes in the economic, political, and policy climate in which they find themselves. In this regard, the prevailing policy context in which community sport coaches now work raises a series of important questions about the nature and professional status of coaching, the role of the coach, and the status of sport as a policy sector. The importance of coaches in enacting community sport is recognised in other countries, including Australia, where community sport is a part of the non-profit voluntary sector. The work of sport coaches generally, and community sport coaches in particular, has undoubtedly been affected by recent changes in the economic, political, and policy climate in which they find themselves.