Abstract
In this study we examined whether and how youth learned life skills through their
involvement on a high school soccer team. We collected data from fieldwork and
interviews with 12 male student-athletes and the head coach from one team. Results
showed that the coach's philosophy involved building relationships and involving
student-athletes in decision making. Issues relating to three life skills (initiative, re
spect, and teamwork/leadership) were identified. Although we observed little direct
teaching of these life skills, we saw that players generally were producers of their
own experiences that supported the development of these skills.