Key Influencers

Sport environments can make a difference in how athletes see and value themselves as people. Key influencers such as coaches, parents, and teachers play an important role in promoting positive body image and self-esteem, as well as preventing disordered eating by ensuring the messages an athlete is getting are positive and empowering.

Key influencers can ensure that when athletes are in their care, they are being treated with respect and celebrated for their differences and uniqueness so that they can build a sense of who they are from the inside out.

Coaches are on the front line with athletes and often exert significant influence in on-field and off-field activities. Coaches need to be aware of the messages they communicate and of the effects of those messages on athletes. As a coach, you can set the standard for behaviour within sport that impacts the daily lives of athletes, and their self-esteem. A focus on performance indicators versus a preoccupation with body image can help to be the positive role models that athletes need.

Teachers often find themselves as coaches or leaders of school teams, intramurals or physical education classes. School sport environments can also impact in how athletes see and value themselves as people. Teachers can play an important role in promoting positive body image and self-esteem, as well as preventing disordered eating by ensuring the messages athletes are getting are positive and empowering.

Parents are the lead influence on athletes in the home environment, and can play a critical role in communicating with young athletes about these issues.

This section contains information that may help you create an environment in your sport, classroom or home that fosters positive body image!