Predictors of superior performance in coaches – the role of A-trait

Abstract

Abstract. Anxiety represents a multifaceted response that can hinder or help performance. Anxiety experienced at high intensity and in the long term is a noxious phenomenon. However, moderate anxiety can lead to improved performance, stimulating on-task effort. The aims of our study are to determine the pattern of anxious reactions in coaches with superior results in competition and to identify which facet of anxiety is a better predictor of sports performance. A total of 57 coaches (19 women and 38 men) participated in the research. We assessed four facets of trait anxiety using the Endler Multidimensional Anxiety Scales. The results highlight significantly lower scores in successful coaches compared to novice coaches for anxiety in new situations and in separation conditions. When talking about anxiety in physically dangerous and sociallyevaluative circumstances, no significant differences were found between the two groups of coaches (successful and beginner ones). After performing two separate binomial logistic regressions, we can argue that the scores for anxiety in separation conditions are a better predictor of sports performance than anxiety in new situations, the model explaining 30% of the variance in international or national performance and correctly classifying 75.4% of cases. The conclusions of our study represent valuable resources for sports psychologists, future (and current) coaches and researchers who are eager to better understand the impact of A-trait on sports performance, in the case of coaches.