OPTIMIZING YOUTH ATHLETES WELL-BEING: THE REVOLUTIONARY I7W FRAMEWORK IN SPORTS

Author(s): HEJLA, M., WILCZYNSKA, D., Institution: GDANSK UNIVERSITY OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SPORT, Country: POLAND, Abstract-ID: 909

Introduction
Coaching attitude is a crucial element influencing the development of athletes, shaping their skills, motivation, and attitude towards sports. The i7W model, based on seven principles (inspiration, explanation, expectation, support, reward, appreciation, growth, and winning), is a coaching framework presenting tools that can be utilized in working with athletes. The model focuses on supporting the mental resources of athletes, fostering a positive coach-athlete relationship, and strengthening group cohesion.

Presentation of articles
Workshops for coaches based on the i7W model enhance the experiences and psychological well-being of adult athletes. The latest work on the model also adapts it for working with young sports athletes. Three studies have been conducted so far, examining the effectiveness of training for coaches and its impact on the minds and bodies of young athletes. The research focused particularly on the coach-athlete relationship, sports motivation, anxiety related to sports competition, as well as stress tolerance and motor balance. The studies demonstrated a significant impact of the model on selected psychological factors in children engaged in sports, including motivation and psychomotor performance.

Discussion and future steps
All the tools within the i7W model are mental techniques that a coach can utilize to achieve progress and growth among young athletes. The coachs attitude and coaching environment significantly shape the physical and mental development of young athletes. Implementing the i7W model for coaches results in numerous benefits for young athletes. Further research based on a larger number of coaches and children representing different sports disciplines is necessary.