Language-Supportive Coaching Practices for Athletes Who are Learning English

Across ages and levels of competition, sport coaches in the U.S. encounter athletes who are learning English (ALEs). ALEs bring significant linguistic and cultural resources, but can struggle to communicate in English. Concurrently, coaches may be challenged to meet these athletes’ needs as language learners. In this article, we describe how intersecting English as a Second Language classroom teaching practices with quality coaching can support language development and sociocultural transitions for ALEs. In doing so, we provide specific considerations coaches can implement into their coaching toolkits to help promote effective communication, relationship building, and enhanced athlete experience.