A Holistic Model of the Coaching Process: Conceptualising the Challenge of Effectiveness in Practice

This chapter introduces a holistic model of the coaching process, which was developed during a mixed-methods, longitudinal case study in international rugby union. Fundamentally, it shows that the coaching process is constituted of the interactions of a coach and their associates within a coaching context. Each of these personal, social and contextual influences on coaching practice are described and explored using practical examples. Numerous constraints and opportunities experienced by coaches in their complex work are highlighted and key considerations for practitioners in different contexts are raised. The holistic model is presented in order to help coaches from diverse backgrounds to think critically about the intricacies of their own coaching practice. More specifically and against the backdrop of this book’s title, it is hoped that the holistic model will act as a framework for reflective practice and awareness building for readers who wish to be effective coaches. Moreover, we hope to stimulate further discussion about the coaching process as a sophisticated, holistic and contingent project, one imbued with interconnected idiosyncrasies, possibilities and challenges, as well as significant breadth and depth.