While being athlete-centred is identified as being integral to high quality coaching programmes, there has been a limited research focus on its practical implementation. In this study, two coach-researchers engaged in a collaborative self-study of their own coaching practices, as they facilitated athlete-centred principles during a university Gaelic football season. Collaborative self-study enabled them to discuss, critique and deepen their understanding of current practice through engagement in reflection and dialogue. The research findings suggest coaches` and players` previous experiences impacted their perceptions of, and engagement with, an athlete-centred approach. Maintaining a clear athlete-centred focus was challenging for the coaches within a competitive team environment. They incorporated pedagogical strategies such as questioning and discussion into their coaching practice, as they tried to facilitate learner-focused and empowering playing experiences. This research provides insights into the approaches taken by the coach-researchers as they worked towards creating an athlete-centred coaching environment based on a positive culture, affirmative pedagogies and shared learning.
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