Research indicates that a coaching style similar to that portrayed by the character Ted Lasso, known as "autonomy-supportive" coaching, is associated with stronger motivation, wellbeing, and improved performance in athletes.
This approach, despite its academic name, focuses on giving athletes some ownership, listening to their perspectives, explaining reasons behind requests, and fostering a sense of capability. A meta-analysis of 131 studies, involving nearly 39,000 participants, found a link between autonomy-supportive coaching and increased motivation and wellbeing.
Furthermore, a field experiment conducted with 33 coaches and 64 athletes preparing for the 2012 Paralympic Games suggested that autonomy-supportive coaching contributed to these athletes winning more medals. Modern coaching research highlights the importance of the coach-athlete relationship in elite sport.
While this style involves support and empathy, it does not mean lowering standards. Coaches still need to provide honest feedback, clear expectations, and accountability, combining high support with high expectations.