Transformational Leadership - Changing the Ice Hockey Culture in Vorarlberg, Austria
Schurig, Michael (2024)
Avaa tiedosto
Lataukset:
2024
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024120533168
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024120533168
Tiivistelmä
This diary-based thesis explores the professional development of an ice hockey coach employed by the Vorarlberg Pioneers in Austria, focusing on two primary themes: cultural transformation within the regional hockey community and personal growth in leadership and coaching
skills. Observing the final phase of the hockey season from January 29th to March 31st, 2024,
the study examines the author’s role in driving collaboration among historically rival clubs to establish a centralized academy for developing young talent, while also enhancing personal
coaching efficacy. The thesis draws on frameworks including Transformational Leadership, and
strategic communication models to guide both the author’s approach and reflection.
The implementation of the Vorarlberg Hockey Academy project involved a structured public relations campaign, targeting critical stakeholders and aligning with leadership theories that advocate shared vision and collaboration. Practical methods employed include data analysis, persuasive communication, and negotiation strategies, with notable reliance on Sinek’s Golden Circle framework for gaining stakeholder support. Through this process, the author addressed cultural resistance within the hockey community, fostering a cooperative environment for talent development. Parallel to project management, the author worked on improving technical coaching
abilities through video analysis and individualized training, further refining approaches based on
elite sports theories.
Results indicate the successful launch of the Vorarlberg Hockey Academy despite challenges,
showcasing the author’s growth in managing stakeholder relationships, adapting leadership
techniques, and using strategic flexibility. Key insights gained include the power of persistence
in changing organizational culture and the value of job analysis for identifying areas of improvement. In future applications, the skills and experiences from this project will contribute to the author’s long-term professional impact within sports coaching and beyond.
skills. Observing the final phase of the hockey season from January 29th to March 31st, 2024,
the study examines the author’s role in driving collaboration among historically rival clubs to establish a centralized academy for developing young talent, while also enhancing personal
coaching efficacy. The thesis draws on frameworks including Transformational Leadership, and
strategic communication models to guide both the author’s approach and reflection.
The implementation of the Vorarlberg Hockey Academy project involved a structured public relations campaign, targeting critical stakeholders and aligning with leadership theories that advocate shared vision and collaboration. Practical methods employed include data analysis, persuasive communication, and negotiation strategies, with notable reliance on Sinek’s Golden Circle framework for gaining stakeholder support. Through this process, the author addressed cultural resistance within the hockey community, fostering a cooperative environment for talent development. Parallel to project management, the author worked on improving technical coaching
abilities through video analysis and individualized training, further refining approaches based on
elite sports theories.
Results indicate the successful launch of the Vorarlberg Hockey Academy despite challenges,
showcasing the author’s growth in managing stakeholder relationships, adapting leadership
techniques, and using strategic flexibility. Key insights gained include the power of persistence
in changing organizational culture and the value of job analysis for identifying areas of improvement. In future applications, the skills and experiences from this project will contribute to the author’s long-term professional impact within sports coaching and beyond.