A case study in sport psychology consultation: Utilizing a program planning and evaluation framework with a collegiate tennis team

Considerable research in the field of applied sport psychology has focused on the application of specific techniques to enhance performance. However very little investigation has occurred about the consultation process. This dissertation was conducted for the purpose of expanding the literature in sport psychology consultation. The author employed a case study design that involved the utilization of Maher's program planning and evaluation approach with a group of 13 male and female collegiate tennis players. These athletes competed in NCAA Division III athletics. The program planning and evaluation approach is defined by four phases: clarification, design, implementation, and evaluation. Using this approach, the consultant identified the client and relevant stakeholders as well as assessed the performance-based needs of the players and coaches. These individuals' needs were considered within a larger organizational context. Information from this needs and context assessment was used to design and implement three programs for these tennis players---workshops, individualized plans, and on-court consultations. Then, at the end of the season, the consultation services were evaluated using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Results of this evaluation indicated that the coaches and their players were satisfied with the consultation services. These findings suggest that the program planning and evaluation approach can be successfully applied within an athletic context as a framework for sport psychology consultation. Consequently, implications of this study for the fields of applied sport psychology and professional psychology are discussed.