معرفی
Chris Szedlak is a Senior Lecturer (Research) in Strength and Conditioning at Hartpury University, where he serves as the programme lead for the MSc in Strength and Conditioning. He is affiliated with the Department of Sport and is actively involved in research, teaching, and professional development initiatives. His academic work is closely tied to the UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA), where he serves as a tutor, assessor, and curriculum consultant. He has also held research and teaching roles at the University of Southampton, University of Winchester, and Oxford Brookes University.
- PhD in Sports Psychology – University of Southampton
- Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning
- MSc in Strength and Conditioning
- BA and MSc in Theology and Christian Counselling
Chris Szedlak’s research focuses on the development of psychosocial competencies in strength and conditioning coaches, using qualitative and constructivist methodologies. He explores how reflective practices, such as writing a 'letter to my younger self,' can scaffold learning for novice coaches. His work emphasizes athlete-centered coaching, effective communication, and the integration of emotional intelligence in coaching practice. He has published extensively on topics including remote coaching, coach development, and the impact of dominant discourses in coach education.
His recent publications demonstrate a strong trend toward realist evaluation, narrative inquiry, and the use of creative qualitative methods to understand coaching behaviors and social impact. He investigates how coaching can contribute to broader social change, particularly through physical activity initiatives in underserved communities. His research often involves collaboration with elite coaches, athletes, and organizations such as UKSCA and Sport England.
Chris Szedlak has been awarded multiple research grants, including funding from Sport England and Hartpury University, to evaluate place-based physical activity programs and develop e-learning modules on psychosocial coaching competencies. He is also a reviewer for several journals, including the International Sport Coaching Journal and Psychology of Sport & Exercise.
He has supervised PhD candidates and contributes to academic leadership as an external examiner and research collaborator. He is a Fellow of Advance HE and a member of the UKSCA Equality, Diversity & Inclusion advisory group. His professional network spans the UK, Canada, and the US, reflecting his international research collaborations.
Chris leads and contributes to multiple research projects focused on coach development, realist evaluation, and social impact through sport. He is involved in creating video and e-learning resources to disseminate research findings and improve coaching practice. His team conducts emotionally engaged research, often reflecting on ethical and emotional challenges in their work.
