This study investigates the assumption that the communication patterns between coaches and athletes are related to the manner in which athletes perceive the role of coach. The investigation focuses specifically upon the authority role of the coach. A modified semantic differential was used to assess the competence, potency, and supportiveness of an authority figure. The "Interpersonal Test" consisting of two sets of questions assessed the "I-Him" and "He-Me" dimensions of an interpersonal relationship. The tests were administered to a sample population of athletes and coaches drawn from eight different intercollegiate basketball teams. It was found that (1) athletes and coaches look similarly upon the coach in terms of the coach's competence, potency, and supportiveness; (2) coaches rated themselves higher than did athletes in each of the three behavioral dimensions; (3) there was less variation between coaches and athletes in the competence factor and a greater variation in both potency and supportiveness dimensions. (Author/LG)