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Introduction to Coaching Communication with Deaf Athletes

Aaron C. Moffett, Michigan State University

"The key in any successful organization or program is the ability to communicate and exchange ideas easily and freely."
Martin Minter

Communication is important, and for the deaf athlete, effective communication is vital for peak performance. Many times, communication is thought to be easy; one person speaks or signs, and the other person listens or interprets the signs. Even with instructions clearly stated, athletes perform drills incorrectly quite often. What makes communication ineffective? There are six reasons for ineffective communication:
(a) content of the message is wrong;
(b) inappropriate transmission of the message;
(c) receiver does not listen or attend;
(d) receiver misinterprets content;
(e) receiver misinterprets intent; and
(f) messages are inconsistent.

Each one of these reasons can lead to miscommunication between coach and athlete.

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This fact sheet was last updated on 12-19-2005.

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