<P>In this fresh and engaging introduction to sports coaching, Lynn Kidman and Stephanie Hanrahan guide students through the coaching process. Focusing on the practical aspects of sports coaching, the book helps students to develop their basic technical skills as well as strategies for working with individual and team athletes, and to plan and implement effective coaching sessions. </P>
<P>The book develops an "athlete-centred approach" to sports coaching, by which athletes take ownership of their learning, in turn strengthening their abilities to retain key skills and to make effective decisions during competition. Useful pedagogical features in each chapter, such as real life case studies, activities, self-reflection questions, and summaries of current research and best practice, encourage reflective practice and help student coaches to develop and extend their coaching techniques and philosophies.</P>
<P><EM>The Coaching Process</EM> is invaluable reading for any student starting a sports coaching course at college or university, and for any coach working with athletes or children in sport who wants to improve their practical skills.</P>