INTRODUCTION: In the ski coaching profession, it is assumed that time spent coaching is where knowledge is attained. However, gaining this experience can take upwards of decades to acquire. Education and training can help bridge the gap between field-based coaching experience (Kaski et al. 2021, Eather et al. 2021). Eather et al. (2021) found that with the proper training, coaches can produce positive changes in the athletes. The purpose of this study is to investigate if years of coaching experience (YOE) and certification level (CrtL) were correlated with and predicted movement analysis outcomes and to identify the Invariant Characteristics (IVC) of ski technique. METHODS: Targeted and scattered sampling methods were used to reach clubs within the national governing body (U.S. Ski & Snowboard). The questionnaire was based on U.S. Ski & Snowboard Coaching Fundamentals and the Professional Ski Instructors of America Teaching Fundamentals (Packert 2021, Coffey et al. 2014). The questionnaire contained a Movement Analysis section where coaches watched a video of a FIS athlete in a racecourse. Coaches then identified and evaluated technical components (Q1), explained why they thought those components happened (Q2), and how they would fix any deficiencies (Q3). The independent variables were YOE and CrtL. The dependent variables were Q1, Q2, and Q3 and Likert scale scores from ranking the seven unique IVC as defined by Coffey et al. (2014). RESULTS: No statistically significant correlations between YOE and Q1, Q2, and Q3 were observed, CrtL correlated with Q1 (r = .294, p = .09), Q2 (r = .318, p = .07), and Q3 (r = .383, p = .04). CrtL was a predictor for only one of the seven IVCs (fore/aft balance, p = .02). YOE did not predict any of the IVCs. No difference was observed in Likert scores between IVC and distractors (p = .12). DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: These results emphasize a need for education and identifying characteristics germane to ski racing early in the coaching career. YOE alone was poorly correlated with movement analysis. Generally, CrtL resulted in correlations with the three movement analysis components. As certification level increases, so does the understanding and knowledge of alpine ski racing technique. The results indicate that technical education is an important component of coaching.
© Copyright 2023 9th International Congress on Science and Skiing, March 18 - 22, 2023, Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Austria. Published by University of Salzburg. All rights reserved.