Making the best even better: fine-tuning development and learning to achieve international success in cross-country skiing

Abstract

The aim of this study is to systematically analyse the leadership and management of Norwegian elite cross-country skiing. More specifically, the thesis investigates how patterns of interaction within the context of Norwegian elite cross-country skiing shape athletes’ reflection on training. Engaging in reflection is considered important to learn reliably from experience to improve the quality of everyday training and development. Consequently, quality of training increases the possibility for continuous development and hence sustained success in elite sports. The main research question is: How do the national elite teams in Norwegian crosscountry skiing fine-tune processes of training and development?

Paper I: Andersen, S.S., Hansen, P.Ø., & Hærem, T (in second revision). Strong beliefs – ambiguous feedback signals. How elite athletes reflect on their training in an organizational setting. Sport in Society

Paper II: Hansen, P.Ø., & Andersen, S.S. (in second revision). Coaching elite athletes: How coaches stimulate elite athletes’ reflection. Sports Coaching Review

Paper III: Hansen, P.Ø., Andersen, S.S., & Hanstad, D.V. (under review). The sporting director and national elite team coach as gatekeepers within the Norwegian elite sport system.

Paper IV: Hansen, P.Ø. (under review). How do they do it? The Norwegian approach to elite athlete development.