EXPERIENCES OF COACH-ATHLETE RELATIONSHIP: A CASE STUDY OF UNIVERSITY OF CAPE COAST, GHANA

Background: The purpose of this study was to explore the efficacy of the coach-athlete relationship in University of Cape Coast sports teams. The researcher employed the interpersonal constructs of closeness, co-orientation, and complementarity (3Cs model) to explore participants’ feelings, thoughts, and behaviour respectively. Method: Qualitative data was obtained through semi-structured interviews, from 8 participants and their responses were content analyzed. Results: Analysis revealed that closeness (as defined in terms of intimacy, trust, respect, appreciation, and promising), co-orientation (termed as communication, self-disclosure, common goal, and general understanding), and lastly, complementarity (defined as roles, emotional support, academic support and financial support) have helped to improve the quality, effectiveness, and efficiency of the coach-athlete relationship among University of Cape Coast sports teams. Conclusion: It was concluded that participants showed a high level of closeness, co-orientation, and complementarity in their relationship.