Reflecting on reflection: exploring the practice of sports coaching graduates

Recent research has commented on the prevalence and usefulness of reflective practice in specific sports coaching domains. The present paper explores how 6 coaching science graduates from Knowles et al's study deployed reflective processes within their coaching practice outside the confines of a supported reflective based curriculum. A reflective interview guide was used based on Gibbs' model and staged reflective practice. 21 raw data themes elicited discussion relating to defining models of reflection, barriers of reflection, issues regarding written techniques and reflection with others. Results suggest the in-built reflective rigour present in the undergraduate programme is at variance with the post graduation reality of sports coach employment. This differentiation is discussed with reference to short term contracts and a lack of professional accountability with recommendations made for future coach education programmes.