Publications & Speaking
Publications
I write at the center point of education-based athletics, coaching sustainability, and youth development. My work blends empirical research with applied practice across school and community sport environments.
Tucker, G. D. (2026). Why Coaches Leave: Examining Retention Challenges in High School Track and Field. International Sport Coaching Journal. (Published online ahead of print 2026). Human Kinetics.
A mixed-methods investigation examining systemic factors shaping coaching attrition, retention and workforce sustainability in education-based athletics. Quantitative results were evaluated using Descriptive and Inferential statistical analysis, with Qualitative results using Reflexive Thematic analysis.
Accepted author manuscript version reprinted, by permission, from International Sport Coaching Journal, 2026, https://doi.org/10.1123/iscj.2025-0046. © Human Kinetics, Inc.
Peer-Reviewed Publication
Tucker, G. (2025). Exploring the Decline in Numbers of High School Track and Field Coaches in Washington State. Wilmington University.
A mixed-methods research study exploring the structural, cultural, and organizational pressures influencing the high school coaching workforce.
Doctoral Dissertation
Speaking
I speak nationally on coaching equity, youth development, and creating healthy, sustainable environments for young athletes.
National Webinar Panel - Positive Coaching Alliance
Topic: Coaching Girls in Youth & High School Sports
Format: National Panel Webinar
Role: Featured Guest Speaker
Invited speaker discussing gender-informed coaching, athlete development, and the cultural pressures shaping young women today's youth sport landscape.
The downloadable dissertation provided on this page, Exploring the Decline in Numbers of High School Track and Field Coaches in Washington State, is © Gavin Tucker and may not be further reproduced or distributed without permission. All rights reserved.
The journal manuscript Why Coaches Leave: Examining Retention Challenges in High School Track & Field is © Human Kinetics and is reprinted, by permission, from the International Sport Coaching Journal, 2026. It is shared here in accordance with publisher policy and may not be further reproduced or distributed without permission.