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Strategies To Increase Athletes' Transformational Leadership Behaviors During Strength And Conditioning Sessions, Valerie Smith, E. Whitney G. Moore

Kinesiology, Health and Sport Studies

Often, leadership is presumed to naturally result from athletic experiences. However, leadership behaviors require practice. Strength and conditioning coaches (SCCs) can provide opportunities for all athletes to practice transformational leadership behaviors, which can increase team cohesion and performance. This article reviews athlete leadership, including leadership roles and four transformational leadership behaviors (idealized influence, inspirational motivation, individualized consideration, and intellectual stimulation). Then, daily strategies SCCs can incorporate into training to foster athletes’ transformational leadership are presented. Followed by strategies for larger, rotating leadership experiences. These strategies can work with athletes across age, gender, and competitive level.