Mentoring

Mentoring is considered to originate from Greek mythology: “Mentor” referring to the ‘wise advisor’ ("Mentoring | Define Mentoring at Dictionary.com," n.d.). Similarly Galvin, 2004, as cited in Sport Coach UK (2010) referenced the Greek origins of mentor as being “a trusted advisor or friend”. Mentoring is a concept that has been around for a long time as an informal process often referred to as informal mentoring “We have all turned to an experienced friend or colleague for advice, especially when we are learning something new or are facing a new challenge” (Australian Sports Commission, 2005, p. 3). However, with organisations gaining awareness of the value of mentoring and establishing that mentoring is a highly effective way for new
22). The document continues to elaborate “Mentoring is a process designed with the intention of helping a coach to improve their level of performance and understanding of the coaching process through guidance, encouragement, data and feedback” (p. 22). Similarly, Roberts, 2000 (as cited in Jones, Harris, & Miles, 2009) also noted a formalised process “whereby a more knowledgeable and experienced person actuates a supportive role of overseeing and encouraging reflection and learning within a less experienced and knowledgeable person, so as to facilitate that person’s career and personal development” (p. 269). Comparatively, Allerman, Cochran, Doverspike, & Newman (1984) signified the importance of the relationship in their definition of mentoring “a relationship in which a person of greater rank, experience or expertise teaches, guides and develops a novice in a profession” (p. 329).
While there is no single definition used for mentoring in sports coaching the literature produces consistent terms. For the purposes of this review we can conclude that mentoring is the act of a mutual relationship between coach and coach mentor, whereby the more experienced coach mentor teaches, guides and develops the less experienced