The International Council for Coaching Excellence has officially launched its new Winning Well and Coaching Practices Special Interest Group (SIG), bringing together researchers, coach developers and practitioners to explore how coaching can support both performance and athlete wellbeing.
The group was launched during a webinar on 31 August, which featured early findings from two Canadian research projects examining mental health, wellbeing and high-performance sport.
Researchers from the University of Ottawa and Canadian sport partners presented findings from CHAMPS, an evaluation of Canada’s national mental health strategy for high-performance sport. The research highlighted increased awareness of mental health initiatives at the elite level and positive impacts on psychological safety.
Coaches also expressed a strong need for practical tools, clearer referral pathways and greater support for their own wellbeing. Cost, access to services and continuing stigma were identified among the barriers that remain.
The webinar also featured early findings from the Winning Well Athlete Wellness Study, which examined the experiences of Canadian Olympic and Paralympic athletes following the Milano-Cortina Games.
Athletes generally reported moderate to high levels of wellness, although physical wellbeing showed the greatest decline following the Games. Self-reflection, sleep, nutrition, supportive relationships, recreation and professional support were among the strategies identified as helping athletes maintain their wellbeing.
Discussion throughout the webinar explored what it really means to “win well”. Participants emphasised that success should extend beyond medals and results to include safe and supportive environments, positive relationships, personal growth and long-term athlete development.
Future research priorities for the SIG include developing a clearer definition of Winning Well, exploring the relationship between wellbeing, wellness, welfare and mental health, and examining how coaching practices influence athlete and coach wellbeing across different sporting and cultural contexts.
The Winning Well and Coaching Practices SIG will continue its work through future meetings, including a follow-up session planned for February. Longer-term goals include developing collaborative research, practical resources and contributions to the 2027 Global Coach Conference in New Zealand.
