Validation of the German version of the Leadership Scale for Sports

In this study the psychometric properties of the German version of the Leadership Scale for Sports (LSS; 21 items, 4 factors; Wurth et al., 1999) are investigated on the basis of N= 1523 athletes (M= 16.65, SD = 4.61). The internal consistencies of the scales are satisfactory with .74 < alpha <.83. The confirmatory factor analysis reveals an acceptable model fit for the four-factor model (CFI=.88, RMSEA =.07, SRMR =.06). When two items are deleted due to their ambiguous factors affiliation, the model fit improves (CFI=.93, RMSEA =.06, SRMR =.04). Positively perceived coach behavior is related to high satisfaction of athletes, high mastery, and less competitive training climate. The results of this study show that the psychometric properties of the 21-item German LSS version are satisfactory However, due to its higher factorial validity and economy the authors recommend a 19-item version.