Final answer:
The speech a coach gives during a pep talk is a motivational speech, which falls under the category of a persuasive speech. Its aim is to inspire and energize the team for better performance by reinforcing their self-belief and fostering a positive attitude.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of speech a coach is giving when delivering a pep talk to her team is primarily a motivational speech, which is a subset of the persuasive speech category. A motivational speech aims to inspire and boost the confidence and enthusiasm of the team before a game or during halftime. The coach uses persuasive elements to influence the beliefs, values, or behaviors of the team members to maximize their performance.
In the context of a pep talk, the coach is not primarily providing new information, which would be the case in an informative speech, or entertaining the audience, which is the goal of an entertaining speech. Instead, the coach uses elements of persuasive speech to energize the team, setting the stage for action.
Through a persuasive speech, the coach reinforces the team's existing beliefs in their capabilities, attempts to change any doubts into confidence, and encourages a can-do attitude that is pivotal for sports. It's about building morale, fostering unity, and preparing the team to face the challenge ahead with determination and spirit.