COACHES’ PERCEPTIONS OF PARENTAL INFLUENCE AND INVOLVEMENT IN YOUNG SWIMMERS’ TRAINING

Abstract

Aim. This study examines coaches' attitudes to parent-coach interactions and parental involvement in the training of young swimmers. Materials and methods. The study presents a systematic literature review with interviews of 11 coaches from Astrakhan, Orenburg, Petrozavodsk, Ramenskoye, Saint Petersburg, and Surgut. Results. Coaches consider parents as significant contributors to the athletic performance of young swimmers. While acknowledging parental involvement as a valuable resource, coaches often prioritize control-oriented aspects (discipline, nutrition, attendance) over psychological support. Notably, effective communication with parents was identified as a critical gap among coaches.
Conclusion. This study demonstrates the complex interplay between coaching practices, parental expectations and athletic performance. Targeted interventions, such as workshops on parent-coach communication and psychological education for parents, may mitigate potential negative impacts on athletes.