Elite Rowers Research Articles

Reduced Right Ventricular Myocardial Strain in the Elite Athlete May Not Be a Consequence of Myocardial Damage. “Cream Masquerades as Skimmed Milk”

Latest research shows that the lower resting values of right ventricular (RV) myocardial % strain may represent a physiologic change rather than subclinical myocardial damage. Therefore, we assessed load-independent changes to the RV as a consequence of high intensity training by measuring the Isovolumic acceleration (IVA) of the free wall of the RV in conjunction with NT pro-BNP measured by an electrochemiluminescence assay. Seventeen controls (mean age 27±4), 24 soccer footballers (mean age 24±4), and 18 elite rowers (mean age 22±4) were studied. Left ventricular (LV) and RV % strain were measured using two-dimensional (2D) speckle based automated functional imaging (AFI) software. RV free wall IVA was measured using pulsed-wave tissue Doppler at the lateral tricuspid annulus. Standard 2D echo were used to measured RV parameters including the Tei index (systolic and diastolic function) and the total annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) of the RV annulus. NT pro-BNP was measured by an electrochemiluminescence assay. The RV diameter was increased in the footballers and elite rowers compared with controls (P<0.001). RV wall size was greater in the elite rowers compared with controls and footballers (P=0.002). The peak IVA of the RV was higher in the rowers, compared with the footballers and to controls (P<0.001). The mean LV and RV % myocardial strain were lower in the elite athletes and the footballers compared with controls (P<0.001). There was no difference in RV Tei index, levels of BNP, and TAPSE across all subjects. This study showed a significant increase in IVA of the RV of athletes despite reduced myocardial % strain and normal levels in NT-proBNP. This suggests that the decrease in % strain is not a consequence of myocardial damage, but may represents a part of the physiological response to endurance exercise. Therefore, a reduced IVA in a remodeled RV could herald a pathological response.

Features of competitive activity of elite rowers

The article outlines the characteristic features of competitive activity in rowing. These are connected to the fact that the athletes are included in a single system, where the criterion of effectiveness is the speed of the boat; the movements are done in two environments: water and air. A specific component of motor activity in rowing is the preservation of the dynamic balance of the unstable support and continuity of translational motions. The speed of covering individual segments of the distance depends essentially on the priority level of development of those or other physical qualities and energy systems. For the demonstration of high sport results must take into account the rapid acceleration of the boat and achieve the highest possible speed, and timely transition to the "distance" mode of rowing.

The design and implementation of a novel method for quantifying training loads in elite rowing: The T2minute method

Introduction: A systematic approach to managing the training of elite athletes is supported by accurate training load measurement. However, quantifying the training of elite Australian rowers is complex due to unique challenges: 1) the multi-centre, multi-state structure of the national program; 2) the variety of training undertaken, incorporating rowing-specific and non-specific modalities, with continuous and interval efforts that span the full intensity spectrum; and 3) the limitations of existing quantification methods for capturing total training loads undertaken from varied training. These challenges highlighted a need to create a consistent, location-independent framework for prescribing training in elite rowing, with a capacity to account for varied training. Methods: An in-house proprietary measure (the T2minute method) was developed at the National Rowing Centre of Excellence (NRCE), as a collaborative project between sport scientists and national squad coaches. The design phase was informed by assessments of the existing training measures, and built upon standardised intensity zones established at the Australian Institute of Sport. A common measurement unit was chosen: one T2minute equates to one minute of on-water single scull rowing at T2 intensity (∼60–72% VO2max). Each intensity zone was assigned a weighting factor according to the curvilinear relationship between power output, intensity, and blood lactate response. Each training mode was assigned a weighting factor based on whether coaches perceived it to be “harder” or “easier” than onwater rowing. With coaches’ feedback, the method was refined over a period of five months. The T2minute method was implemented as the core framework for prescribing training for elite Australian rowers throughout the 2009–2012 Olympic cycle. Results: The implementation of the T2minute method successfully established consistency with training prescription and monitoring practices within the NRCE high performance program. The national roll out this method has influenced rowing training methodology at elite and sub-elite levels in Australia. Since implementation, the method has undergone scientific validation. Further research is underway, utilising the method to explore complex relationships between rowers’ training and performance outcomes. Conclusion: The T2minute method is a novel approach that allows rowing coaches and sport scientists to utilise one consistent system to quantify load from varied training. Its implementation represents a considerable achievement in establishing a common framework for managing the training process within a complex organisational structure. This collaborative approach used to develop the T2minute method provides unique insight into the important considerations and practical challenges of applying training science to enhance elite sport performance.

Variation in the HIF1A Gene in Elite Rowers

The transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF1) is one of the key regulators of cellular metabolism. The aim of this study was to analyze the possible importance of the HIF1A Pro582Ser polymorphisms in rowing. One hundred twenty-seven male Polish rowers (both former and current competitors) were recruited for this study. Genotyping was carried out by polymerase chain reaction. Significance was assessed by Chi-square (χ(2)) analysis. The results obtained revealed that frequency of the HIF1A Pro/Ser genotype (32.28 vs. 18.91%; p = 0.006) and Ser allele (16.93 vs. 10.00%; p = 0.01) were significantly higher in the rowers compared with those in controls. The results obtained confirm the significance of the HIF1A gene as a useful genetic marker in rowing. This kind of information would presumably be applicable in a program to search for the most predisposed individuals and also in the planning of training programs.

Cardio-respiratory and electromyographic responses to ergometer and on-water rowing in elite rowers

The aim of this study was to compare muscle activation and cardio-respiratory response during ergometer and on-water rowing. Nine internationally competitive rowers (five Olympic Games medal winners, age 25.6 ± 4.8 years) were requested to perform a 1,000 m race simulation test in the two conditions. Surface electromyographic (sEMG) signals from trapezius superior (TRS), latissimus dorsi (LD), biceps brachii (BB), rectus femoris (RF), vastus medialis (VAM), vastus lateralis (VAL), biceps femoris (BF) and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles were recorded continuously during the tests together with other cardio-respiratory parameters: heart rate (HR), ventilation (VE), oxygen consumption (VO₂). On-water, subjects covered the same distance in a longer time (218.4 ± 3.8 s vs. 178.1 ± 5.6 s during ergometer test). TRS, LD, BB, RF, VAM and VAL muscle activation on-water was lower than off-water during the rowing race. VO₂ and VE responses were similar between the two conditions even if the time to complete the 1,000 m race simulation test was higher on-water. The results indicate that for most of the analyzed muscles EMG activation on the ergometer is higher than on-water with the maximal activity at the beginning of the on-water test due reasonably to overcome the forces opposing the forward motion, while the ergometer task elicited increasing muscle activation over time. The present data may be considered by coaches when choosing a rowing ergometer in substitution for the training on-water or when relying on the indoor tests to select the crew.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Diagnosis of Rib Fracture in a Competitive Collegiate Rower: A Case Report.

Competitive collegiate rowing has a long history, dating back to the nineteenth century. The oldest American intercollegiate athletic event on record is the Yale-Harvard boat race in 18521. While the mechanics of the sport remain largely unchanged, the extent of training and level of competition for collegiate rowers continue to increase. Competitive rowing is no longer a seasonal sport; these athletes are involved in year-round training, on ergometers (rowing machines) and in the water. This level of training, combined with the specific repetitive movements involved in rowing, makes elite rowers especially susceptible to injury. The mechanics of the rowing motion can be analyzed in four phases: catch, drive, finish, and recovery. The catch phase is when the rower’s legs and back are fully flexed and the arms are extended as the oars enter the water. The drive phase is when the legs extend and the back slightly extends, followed by flexing of the arms to accelerate the oar through the water. The finish or release phase consists of the elbows drawing the blade through the water as well as movement of the handle down to remove the oar from the water. The recovery phase is when the oar is brought back to the starting position. The timing and magnitude of these motions can lead to strain and overuse injuries2. It is therefore not surprising that back injuries are very common among rowers. The differential diagnosis for back pain in a rower includes muscle strain, ligament and/or tendon injury, tear of the anulus fibrosus, or stress fractures. Although stress fractures of the ribs are rare in the general population, they have a relatively high frequency (6.1% to 22.6%) in competitive rowers3,4. While stress fractures have been long identified as a consequence of vigorous …

The Prevalence of Low Back Pain Among Former Elite Cross-Country Skiers, Rowers, Orienteerers, and Nonathletes

Background: Some cross-sectional studies have suggested that the prevalence of low back pain (LBP) may be high among endurance athletes with repetitive back loading, but there are no large, prospective cohort studies addressing this issue. Purpose: To compare the prevalence of symptoms of low back pain (LBP) among former endurance athletes with different loading characteristics on the lumbar region: cross-country skiing (flexion loading), rowing (extension loading), and orienteering (no specific loading), as well as a nonathletic control group. Study design: Cohort study; level of evidence, 2. Methods: Self-reported questionnaire on LBP adapted for sports based on standardized Nordic questionnaires for musculoskeletal symptoms. Responders were 173 rowers, 209 orienteerers, 242 cross-country skiers, and 116 control subjects (88% of the original cohort). Results: There were no group differences between the athletic groups and the control group with regard to the 2 main outcomes: reported LBP the previous 12 months (P = .66) and frequent LBP the past year (>30 days with LBP) (P = .14). More rowers than orienteerers reported frequent LBP the past year (adjusted OR = 2.32; CI, 1.02-5.28). Occupational changes due to LBP were reported more often by rowers (13%) than skiers (7%) and orienteerers (3%) (P = .002). More rowers and skiers reported having received outpatient medical assistance than orienteerers or controls. A training volume >550 h/y was a risk factor for reporting LBP during the previous 12 months compared with a training volume <200 h/y (adjusted OR = 2.51; CI, 1.26-5.02). A previous episode with LBP was associated with LBP later in life (adjusted OR = 3.02; CI, 2.22-4.10). Conclusion: Low back pain was not more common among former endurance athletes with specific back loading compared with non-athletes. The results indicate that years of prolonged and repetitive flexion or extension loading in endurance sports does not lead to more LBP. However, a large training volume in the past year and previous episodes with LBP are risk factors for LBP. Comparing the sports of rowing, cross-country skiing, and orienteering, it appears that whereas orienteering is protective, rowing can provoke LBP.

Determining the effect of selected anthropometric parameters on the time needed to cover 1000~m on a rowing ergometer by physically inactive young women

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of selected individual factors (independent variables) on the dependent variable of a simulated rowing distance in a group of physically inactive females. The independent variables were the women’s age, body mass (kg) and height (cm), and the BMI index. The time required to cover the simulated distance of 1000 m was adopted as the dependent variable. The study involved 258 female students who participated only in the obligatory physical education classes. Research revealed that the relationships between anthropometric parameters and the time required to complete 1000 m on a rowing ergometer differ among physically inactive women and elite rowers. In both physically inactive women as well as elite rowers an increase in body height had a positive influence on the time (shorter time). In the case of body mass, its increase in our study subjects resulted in poorer times, which is contrary to the results of studies conducted on elite rowers. This is most likely due to the fact that the body mass of athletes consists mainly of lean body mass, whereas physically inactive females are characterized by a higher percentage of body fat. Moreover, the time taken to complete the rowing trial was shortest for students with BMI values ranging from 17 to 21. The conducted research led to the conclusion that the analyzed anthropometric parameters affect the time needed by women to cover a distance of 1000 m on a rowing ergometer. Further studies should be conducted to include additional anthropometric and physiological parameters.

The effect of rowing to exhaustion on frontal plane angular changes in the lumbar spine of elite rowers

Lumbar spine injury is common in rowers and examination of spinal kinematics may improve the understanding of this injury's prevalence. This study aimed to examine the range of frontal plane angular displacement (AD) in the lumbar spine at L3 during ergometer rowing and to investigate the effect of exhaustion on lumbar kinematics. Twelve elite male rowers completed an incremental test on a Concept 2 ergometer. Lumbar AD at L3 was measured continually throughout the rowing trial using a Spectrotilt Inclinometer and blood lactate was sampled at 3-minute intervals. AD of between 4.7° and 8.8° was recorded at L3. There was a significant increase in AD between the first and last stage of the test (mean increase = 4.1 ± 1.94°, 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 2.9 to 5.3°, t = 7.36, P = 0.000014). Incremental rise in AD was associated with an incremental rise in blood lactate but regression confirmed that only stroke rate was a significant predictor for increasing angle. Thus there is a statistically significant increase in frontal plane AD at L3 over the course of an incremental exercise test although it cannot be confirmed if this is as a result of exhaustion. The values of AD confirm that there is motion in the frontal plane in ergometer rowing.

ACTN3 R577X polymorphism in top-level Polish rowers

The first evidence that a mononucleotide difference in DNA sequence was associated with power ability referred to the R577X polymorphism of the ACTN3 gene, where translation (C > T) at nucleotide position 1747 in the ACTN3 coding sequence converts an arginine (R) to a stop codon (X) at residue 577. In the present study, DNA polymorphism derived from the ACTN3 gene was studied in Polish rowers to examine the hypothesis that the ACTN3 genotype is associated with athletic performance. The study involved 80 male Polish rowers of a nationally competitive standard and 204 unrelated volunteers for controls. Genotype distribution among the whole group of athletes (53.8% RR, 38.8% RX, 7.4 XX% DD) was significantly different to that among controls (36.3% RR, 46.1% RX, 17.6%; p = 0.01). When only elite rowers were considered, p value for genotype distribution (56.8% RR, 37.8% RX, 5.4% XX) was 0.03. The genotype distribution among nonelite rowers (52.2% RR, 39.1% RX, 8.7% XX) was not significantly different to that among controls (p = 0.09). A significant excess of the 577R allele was noted in the whole cohort of rowers (73.11%, p = 0.002). This trend was similar when comparing with the controls (59.3%) the allele frequency in elite rowers (75.7%, p = 0.007) and nonelite rowers (71.7%, p = 0.026). In conclusion, our results are contrary to the hypothesis that the ACTN3 577X allele may have some beneficial effect on endurance performance in rowing. On the contrary, the ACTN3 RX or RR genotypes seem to be a requirement for being an elite rower, therefore, identification of ACTN3 polymorphism as a genetic marker for rowing talent should be interpreted with great caution.

Does extensive on-water rowing increase muscular strength and endurance?

The purpose of this study was to compare changes in aerobic condition, strength, and muscular endurance following 8 weeks of endurance rowing alone or in combination with weight-training. Twenty-two elite rowers were assigned to (1) rowing (n = 10, 250–270 km · week−1) or (2) rowing (n = 12, 190–210 km · week−1) plus four weight-training sessions each week. Pre and post mean and standardized effect-size (ES) differences in aerobic condition (watts at 4 mmol · L−1) and strength (isometric pull, N), prone bench-pull (6-repetition maximum, 6-RM), 5- and 30-repetition leg-press and 60-repetition seated-arm-pull (J, performed on a dynamometer) normalized by body mass and log-transformed were analysed, after adjusting for gender. The standardized differences between groups were trivial for aerobic condition (ES [±90% CI] = 0.15; ±0.28, P = 0.37) and prone bench-pull (ES = 0.27; ±0.33, P = 0.18), although a moderate positive benefit in favour of rowing only was observed for the seated-arm-pull (ES = 0.42; ±0.4, P = 0.08). Only the weight-training group improved isometric pull (12.4 ± 8.9%, P < 0.01), 5-repetition (4.0 ± 5.7%, P < 0.01) and 30-repetition (2.4 ± 5.4%, P < 0.01) leg-press. In conclusion, while gains in aerobic condition and upper-body strength were comparable to extensive endurance rowing, weight-training led to moderately greater lower-body muscular-endurance and strength gains.

Evaluation of four models for the sonification of elite rowing

Many aspects of sonification represent potential benefits for the practice of sports. Taking advantage of the characteristics of auditory perception, interactive sonification offers promising oppor ...

Aerobic Training Induced Structural Changes of the Heart

Exercise may cause structural changes, which may increase cardiac functions such as enhanced pumping mechanism due to increased heart mass and volume. These changes may contribute to better performance. According to several studies, endurance training causes changes in structure of the heart since endurance trained athletes had larger LV dimensions, and mass. For instance, both cycling and rowing studies indicated positive structural adaptations of the heart; in addition, elite rowers had higher values than sub-elite rowers; this result suggests that elite athletes have higher level of adaptations supporting. Also, In all rat studies supported that endurance training increases LV mass, wall thickness and dimensions. Endurance training causes structural adaptations such as increased cardiac muscle mass, left ventricular wall thickness and chamber size. It is recommended that structural changes in the heart because of endurance training enhance the heart's ability to pump blood mainly by increasing its stroke volume. Training for adequate duration and time also should be taken in consideration to improve cardiac function because of the changes in the structure of the heart.

Improved rehabilitation and training techniques through the use of motion simulation – Core strength conditioning for elite rowers

The most common injuries experienced by sweep rowers relate to the lower back; rowers with greater core strength have been shown to be less prone to these injuries. Stationary rowing trainers (Ergometers) currently used for training and rehabilitation generally have a fixed support base, contrary to a real boat. It is hypothesized that training with an unstable base may help develop core strength in athletes. This paper describes early development of a rowing simulator with a realistic unstable platform. Using SolidWorks, a conceptual motion simulator was designed, which was then linked to MATLAB/Simulink to produce a controllable simulation of rowing. A control algorithm was developed to compute the forces and virtual rowing parameters required. The algorithm uses a PID controller to maintain a coordinate position of the virtual boat's centre of gravity. In particular, the issue of creating an “unstable” feeling about the roll axis was developed. Comparison between the simulated output and real rowing data is required for verification of effective control. The resultant control system could be linked to a real-time motion platform, whereby EMG and or other biometric measurements could be used to determine the effectiveness of core muscle activation between the simulator, Ergometer and on water rowing.

The development of a clinical management pathway for chest wall pain in elite rowers

Introduction: Chest wall pain continues to be a significant problem in elite rowing, generating substantial loss of training time. Typically chest wall pain can originate from bony (i.e. stress fractures) and non bony structures. Non bony causes of chest wall pain include the costo-chondral joints, intercostals, fascia and thoracic referral. Failing to diagnose a bony cause of chest wall pain early may allow an athlete to continue training, potentially making the stress reaction or stress fracture worse.

Is the C34T Polymorphism of the AMPD1 Gene Associated with Athlete Performance in Rowing?

The skeletal muscle-specific isoform of adenosine monophosphate deaminase (AMPD) is one of the most important regulators of muscle energy metabolism. A nonsense C to T transition in nucleotide 34 (C34T) in exon 2 of AMPD1 gene converts the codon CAA into the premature stop-codon TAA. 127 Polish male rowers including Olympic and world champions were recruited for this study. Controls samples were obtained from 251 unrelated volunteers. Statistically significant differences in genotype distribution were observed when only a whole group of rowers (88.19% CC, 11.81% CT, 0% TT; p=0.009) were compared with controls (75.31% CC, 23.10% CT, 1,59% TT). A significant deficiency of the T allele compared to control samples was noted in the elite rowers (4.55%, p=0.021) and non-elite rowers (6.63%, p=0.023), whereas this trend was even stronger when compared with the controls for the whole group of rowers (5.91%, p=0.002). Our results suggest that the T allele is associated with physical performance level, therefore, it may be included in the group of performance altering polymorphisms as a negative factor to athletic performance.

Rib Stress Fractures Among Rowers

Rib stress fractures (RSFs) can have serious effects on rowing training and performance and accordingly represent an important topic for sports medicine practitioners. Therefore, the aim of this review is to outline the definition, epidemiology, mechanisms, intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors, injury management and injury prevention strategies for RSF in rowers. To this end, nine relevant books, 140 journal articles, the proceedings of five conferences and two unpublished presentations were reviewed after searches of electronic databases using the keywords 'rowing', 'rib', 'stress fracture', 'injury', 'mechanics' and 'kinetics'. The review showed that RSF is an incomplete fracture occurring from an imbalance between the rate of bone resorption and the rate of bone formation. RSF occurs in 8.1-16.4% of elite rowers, 2% of university rowers and 1% of junior elite rowers. Approximately 86% of rowing RSF cases with known locations occur in ribs four to eight, mostly along the anterolateral/lateral rib cage. Elite rowers are more likely to experience RSF than nonelite rowers. Injury occurrence is equal among sweep rowers and scullers, but the regional location of the injury differs. The mechanism of injury is multifactorial with numerous intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors contributing. Posterior-directed resultant forces arising from the forward directed force vector through the arms to the oar handle in combination with the force vector induced by the scapula retractors during mid-drive, or repetitive stress from the external obliques and rectus abdominis in the 'finish' position, may be responsible for RSF. Joint hypomobility, vertebral malalignment or low bone mineral density may be associated with RSF. Case studies have shown increased risk associated with amenorrhoea, low bone density or poor technique, in combination with increases in training volume. Training volume alone may have less effect on injury than other factors. Large differences in seat and handle velocity, sequential movement patterns, higher elbow-flexion to knee-extension strength ratios, higher seat-to-handle velocity during the initial drive, or higher shoulder angle excursion may result in RSF. Gearing may indirectly affect rib loading. Increased risk may be due to low calcium, low vitamin D, eating disorders, low testosterone or use of depot medroxyprogesterone injections. Injury management involves 1-2 weeks cessation of rowing with analgesic modalities followed by a slow return to rowing with low-impact intensity and modified pain-free training. Some evidence shows injury prevention strategies should focus on strengthening the serratus anterior, strengthening leg extensors, stretching the lumbar spine, increasing hip joint flexibility, reducing excessive protraction, training with ergometers on slides or floating-head ergometers, and calcium and vitamin D supplementation. Future research should focus on the epidemiology of RSF over 4-year Olympic cycles in elite rowers, the aetiology of the condition, and the effectiveness of RSF prevention strategies for injury incidence and performance in rowing.

Variability and Predictability of Finals Times of Elite Rowers

Little is known about the competitive performance characteristics of elite rowers. We report here analyses of performance times for finalists in world-class regattas from 1999 to 2009. The data were official race times for the 10 men's and 7 women's single and crewed boat classes, each with ∼ 200-300 different boats competing in 1-33 of the 46 regattas at 18 venues. A linear mixed model of race times for each boat class provided estimates of variability as coefficients of variation after adjustment for means of calendar year, level of competition (Olympics, world championship, World Cup), venue, and level of final (A, B, C, …). Mean performance was substantially slower between consecutive levels of competition (1.5%, 2.7%) and consecutive levels of finals (∼ 1%-2%). Differences in the effects of venue and of environmental conditions, estimated as variability in mean race time between venues and finals, were extremely large (∼ 3.0%). Within-boat race-to-race variability for A finalists was 1.1% for single sculls and 0.9% for crewed boats, with little difference between men and women and only a small increase in lower-level finalists. Predictability of performance, expressed as intraclass correlation coefficients, showed considerable differences between boat classes, but the mean was high (∼ 0.63), with little difference between crewed and single boats, between men and women, and between within and between years. The race-to-race variability of boat times of ∼ 1.0% is similar to that in comparable endurance sports performed against water or air resistance. Estimates of the smallest important performance enhancement (∼ 0.3%) and the effects of level of competition, level of final, venue, environment, and boat class will help inform investigations of factors affecting elite competitive rowing performance.

The effect of ergometer design on rowing stroke mechanics

The effect of rowing ergometer design upon power delivery and coordination patterns of the rowing stroke was analyzed for 14 elite rowers. Rowers were tested in three ergometer conditions: the fixed stretcher Concept2c ergometer, the Concept2c ergometer mounted on sliding rails, and the sliding stretcher RowPerfect ergometer. Ergometers were instrumented to measure the external force generated at the handle and the foot stretcher and a nine-segment inverse dynamics model used to calculate joint and overall power delivery. Peak power generation and absorption at the knee joint was significantly greater, and total power delivered to the ergometer delayed on the fixed stretcher ergometer when compared to the sliding stretcher ergometers. No differences were found in the mechanical energy delivered to the handle of the three ergometers; however, greater joint mechanical energy production of the lower limb reduced mechanical efficiency when rowing the Concept2c fixed ergometer. The fixed foot stretcher on the Concept2c fixed ergometer acts to increase the inertial forces that the rower must overcome at the catch, increasing the moment and power output at the knee, and affecting the coordination pattern during the recovery phase.

Choppy Waters: Elite Rowers’ Perceptions of Coaching

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between elite rowers and their coaches. We were particularly interested in how the rowers constructed and negotiated the interactions and pedagogical actions of the coaches. Drawing upon participant observation and the principal researcher’s reflexive journal, data were collected over a five-month period while ten rowers participated in a preparatory training camp for subsequent selection to compete at upcoming major events. The data were analyzed inductively (Rubin &amp; Rubin, 1995). The findings demonstrate the importance of social expectations within the coaching context. Such expectations have to be at least partially met if the coaching “contract” is to be honored (Jones, 2009). Not doing so, puts at risk the respect of athletes, without which coaches simply cannot operate (Potrac, Jones &amp; Armour, 2002).