An elite hockey player's experiences of video-based coaching: A poststructuralist reading. (February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Taylor, William G; Potrac, Paul; Nelson, Lee J; Jones, Luke; Groom, Ryan
• Is Part Of: International review for the sociology of sport. Volume 52:Number 1(2017:Feb.)
• Page Start: 112
• Page End: 125
• Publication Date: 2017-02
• Subjects: Foucault -- Mathiesen -- post-Panoptic -- synopticon -- video-based coaching; Sports -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 306.48305
• DOI: 10.1177/1012690215576102
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1012-6902

Abstract

In this article, we present a poststructuralist reading of Claire's (a pseudonym) experiences of receiving video-based coaching in elite level field hockey. Data were gathered through a series of in-depth interviews that formed part of a recursive and iterative data collection and analysis process. Interpreting Claire's stories through a neo-Foucauldian application of Mathiesen's synopticon revealed how the presence of a video camera mediated Claire's practice and imposed a critical gaze, one that became collectively and institutionally consumed. We argue that the thoughts presented in this paper have significant implications for coach practice and education and that, as a result, there is a need for further critical inquiry into coaches' uses of video-based technology.