The art of the question: the structure of questions posed by youth soccer coaches during training

Background: From a sports perspective, pedagogical researchers have suggested questioning is an effective instructional tool and strategy for developing critical thinking, problem-solving decision-making skills. Questions enable coaches to contextualise athlete learning by encouraging guiding them identify explore solutions game-based problems. While previous investigations explored the frequency of questions provided some understanding interactions within coaching session, there still limited empirical knowledge related structure profile coach strategies.Purpose: This study aims how youth soccer coaches, implementing FFA National Curriculum, used techniques specific contexts/activities promote learning.Method: Australian (i.e. U12 – U16; n = 19) were filmed during regular training sessions. A coding system was developed provide detailed types asked in different situations. The each coded event type, context, who, what, knowledge, activity) recorded.Data Analysis: Descriptive statistics (mean ± standard error) describe all information. Association rule models generated determine extent which descriptor Question Type, Knowledge, Context, Who, What) occurred presence another.Results: Coaches on average 71 per session (0.88 minute), with slightly greater use convergent closed) (52.2%) than divergent open) (47.8%). that are lower order thinking. In contrast, generally game tactic or principle when team has stopped activity. indicated general trend considering type question convergent; divergent) activity types. During drills small-sided games, team, nature required level knowledge. For large more targeted individual while on-going, but Divergent tactics although only 7% these players problem solve.Conclusion: results current indicate posing compared studies, possibly reflecting emphasis placed as Curriculum. insights into distinct ‘styles’ profiles typically implemented should consider needs wants determining best suits situation be prepared move between depending player responses. Future research perspectives athletes why asked, they reaching their intended purposes.