ALUYA C. O

This study examined the influence of coaching styles on the performance of student-athletes at the University of Benin. The purpose was to identify the dominant coaching styles used by coaches and determine how these styles affect athletes’ performance, academic motivation, and overall development. The study also explored athletes’ perceptions of coaches’ leadership and communication, as well as challenges associated with applying coaching styles effectively. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population consisted of 204 student- athletes, from which 102 were selected using purposive and convenience sampling techniques. Data was collected using a validated and reliable self-structured questionnaire, with reliability confirmed through the test–retest method and Cronbach’s Alpha. Descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation were used to analyze the data. Findings showed that democratic and supportive coaching styles were the most dominant among coaches. Coaching styles were found to significantly influence athletic performance, confidence, discipline, and academic motivation. The study also identified challenges such as
inadequate resources, large team sizes, academic pressure, and limited institutional support. It was recommended that coaches receive continuous training on effective leadership and athlete-centered methods, and that the university strengthen its support systems to enhance coaching effectiveness and student-athlete performance.