Final answer:
A coach's job is to model leadership similar to that of a team captain—being the prototype for other group leaders. The team captain motivates, communicates effectively, and demonstrates the desired behaviors and work ethic within an athletic team, making them the best example of a leadership prototype.
Step-by-step explanation:
A coach's job is to be a model or example of leadership, essentially acting as a prototype for what they want their small group leaders, like team captains, to embody. In the context of an athletic team, the correct answer to the example of a prototype for the concept of leadership is c. the team captain.
The team captain plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the rest of the players. As a leader, the captain is often the individual who motivates the team, communicates effectively with both the coach and team members, and demonstrates the behaviors, skills, and attitudes expected of all players. The captain is someone who is consistently dependable, sets a strong work ethic, and is respected by their peers—qualities that coaches typically seek to instill in all players.
It is also important to mention that while the equipment manager, scorekeeper, and even the quietest member of the team play significant roles within the team dynamics, they are not typically examples of leadership prototypes in the same way that a captain is. The captain's position inherently carries the responsibility of being an exemplar of leadership.