Davey, Jennifer J.2014-02-212014-02-2120142014http://hdl.handle.net/10393/30647http://dx.doi.org/10.20381/ruor-3553Despite growing interest in coaching sciences, literature has revealed a dearth of research on coaches who work with para athletes (e. g. Cregan, Bloom, & Reid, 2007; McMaster, Culver, & Werthner, 2012). The purpose of this study was to explore how novice coaches in parasport develop their knowledge. The study was conducted in real-time during the coaches’ first contact with the context. Semi-structured interviews and participant observation were conducted with six Canadian para sailing coaches. Thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006) revealed that coaches developed context-specific knowledge and skills through a blend of formal, nonformal, and informal learning situations. The participants highlighted the importance of learning from others, especially other coaches and from athletes.enDisability sportCoach learningCoach developmentParalympicSailingThesis