A.U.T / YNZ Survey

Hello everyone,

I hope you're all doing well. My name is Matt, and I'm currently studying coaching at AUT (Auckland University of Technology) while also doing a placement with Yachting New Zealand. I'm reaching out with a request for your support in a research project I'm working on.

 

My research revolves around sideline behaviour and its impact on young sailors' retention in sailing. Since sailing lacks the distinct sidelines found in sports such as tennis, hockey, and rugby, when referring to "sideline behaviour" in the context of sailing, I am addressing the conduct of supporters when they have the opportunity to interact with sailors during training or regattas.  

 

Your participation in this endeavour would be incredibly valuable in making a positive difference in the sailing community. Please take a few moments to participate in the surveys provided below and share them with your coaches, parents, and sailors. By collecting data on this important aspect of the sport, we can identify areas that need improvement and work together to create a more positive and nurturing environment for our young sailors.

 

We've seen other sports like netball and rugby successfully conduct research on sideline behaviour, leading to transformative changes that have improved attitudes and retention among young athletes. An example of this is Netball Smart: https://www.netballsmart.co.nz/component/nnzlibrary/download/fb63a5c23c27cb8ab43c8e912df5eac1.html  and NZ Rugby:  https://www.rugbytoolbox.co.nz/resources-education/learn-more/articles/interest/sideline-behaviour 

Together, we can achieve similar positive outcomes within the world of sailing.

 

What we mean by sideline behaviour in sailing and some the examples we hope to address include:

  • Offering unsolicited and occasionally misguided advice to sailors during or after races.

  • Parents, sailors and coaches engaging in disputes with judges or race officials.

  • Parents over-coaching their children or being overly critical during car rides home. 

 

It's important to recognise that every coach and parent's intention is to support and nurture sailors' passion for sailing. By understanding how certain behaviours can affect our young people, we can create guidelines and support systems to empower everyone to help all sailors enjoy sailing to the fullest and have an enjoyable experience on the water.

 

Your participation in these surveys will be the cornerstone of this project, helping us identify critical issues and determine the most effective steps toward instigating positive change.

Thank you sincerely for your time and willingness to participate. Your contribution will undoubtedly make a meaningful impact on the future of sailing, fostering a more supportive and nurturing environment for our young sailors.

For parents: Parents

 

For coaches: Coaches

 

For sailors: Sailors

 

If you can please complete by the 2nd October it would be greatly appreciated. If you have any comments or questions, please feel free to reach out.

Kind regards

Matt