Exploring the Culture of Coaching in North Vancouver Secondary Schools

Public school athletics programs in Canada rely almost entirely on unpaid volunteers. In the context of rising living costs and the increasing demands of modern life, this study examines what motivates individuals to dedicate substantial time to volunteer coaching and how schools can better recruit and retain them. This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of secondary school volunteer coaches in the public school district of North Vancouver, British Columbia. Using semi-structured interviews, it explores both the motivations that drive these volunteers and the challenges they encounter while sustaining athletic programs without financial compensation. Fifteen participants were interviewed, with coaching experience in the district ranging from three seasons to more than fifty seasons. Through qualitative data analysis, several key themes emerged: motivations for volunteering, the changing nature of coaching and its associated challenges, and issues of retention and sustainability. Findings indicate that volunteer coaches are primarily motivated by a love of sport and the rewarding relationships they form with student-athletes. Although time pressures and other stressors influence their experiences, the critical factor driving volunteers to step away is ineffective leadership support— particularly a lack of trust and respect. The study findings suggest that volunteers should be more highly valued and supported, with emphasis placed on trusting their judgment and expertise. Doing so is essential to sustaining school sport programs and ensuring positive experiences for both coaches and student-athletes.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

ma

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

masters

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Year dc:date.issued

2026

Author dc:creator

• Thomas, Suzanne

• GV Hamdden Adloniant
• LB1603 Addysg Eilaidd. Ysgolion uwchradd

Dc Identifier Grantnumber

UWTSD

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.uwtsd.ac.uk:4177