Behind Every Trophy: Best Practices of Award-Winning Elementary School Sports Coordinators
Paula Beave Fariñas, Josephine Baguio
Received: 05 January 2026; Revised: 20 February 2026; Accepted: 23 February 2026; Published: 28 February 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.66074/5T6Y7U8I9
Abstract
This phenomenological study examined the best practices of award-winning elementary school sports coordinators in mentoring student-athletes and improving sports program management in Mati Central District, Division of the City of Mati, Philippines. Ten coordinators participated in in-depth semi-structured interviews, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis within a phenomenological frame. Results identified three best-practice themes: structured training and skill development, motivation and mentorship, and adaptive strategies in sports program management. Coordinators’ meaning-making centered on personal fulfillment and purpose, professional growth and skill enhancement, and relationship-building with students. Coordinators also highlighted strategic planning and organization, fostering student motivation and engagement, and collaboration with stakeholders as key directions for improving program effectiveness. Across themes, coordinators described sports coordination as a leadership-intensive, relational, and adaptive practice that extends beyond competitions into values formation, teamwork, and student development. Findings offer evidence-based guidance for school leaders, sports coordinators, and policymakers seeking to strengthen elementary sports programs in resource-constrained settings.
Keywords: elementary sports coordinators, mentorship, phenomenology, school sports management, student-athletes
Author Information: Graduate School, Rizal Memorial Colleges, Inc., Davao, Philippines; josephinebbaguio@outlook.com
Volume 2, Issue 2, June 2026