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Thomas PG, Lucas P, Walters S, Oldham ARH. Emerging athletes' career transitions in professional sport: an existential multi-case perspective. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1401848. [PMID: 39027716 PMCID: PMC11254707 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1401848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This article examines athletes preparing for, transitioning into, or going through the developmental stages of a professional sports career, referred to as the emerging athlete career transition. This transition includes events such as selections, Junior-to-Senior promotions, contracting, migration, and early exits. The article presents the collective findings of a multi-case study in three professional sports: rugby league, basketball, and boxing. Method Consistent with pragmatic qualitative research methodology, a stratified data set was collected and analysed, incorporating researcher-practitioner fieldwork, interviews, documents and artefacts for these cases. This article explores unique events and the demographic and cultural implications of navigating emergent transitions along professional sporting pathways in New Zealand. Findings These findings highlight the importance of building self-efficacy as a pre-condition for coping through preparation and experience. Recommendations Recommendations include fostering collaborative cultures and authentic support relationships to facilitate better coping alongside athletic and personal development in these high-pressured environments. Furthermore, understanding existential perspectives of meaning, choice, and responsibility provides insights for developing the resources that allow emerging athletes to thrive in life beyond sport.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. G. Thomas
- Sports Performance Research Institute NZ, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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2
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Mitchell T, Sargent Megicks B, Gledhill A. Enhancing our understanding of sport practitioner perspectives on developing effective sporting environments. J Sports Sci 2024; 42:1232-1242. [PMID: 39120473 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2024.2387970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Research has increasingly focused on the environmental features within talent and performance development settings. However, practitioner perspectives on their role in optimizing these environments are scarce. This study aimed to examine practitioner perspectives of the role of the environment, specifically, how they plan, deliver and review (p-D-R) to optimize environmental conditions for athletes. Ten sports practitioners (including managers, coaches and multidisciplinary support staff) took part in semi-structured interviews. Data was analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis and generated themes associated with Planning (Conceptualization, Planning and Meeting Athlete's Needs), Delivering (Explicit, Implicit, Support, Communication, Holistic Approach) and Reviewing (KPIs, Evaluation & Monitoring, Rolling Review, Review Process). Findings suggest that to offer the best possible experiences to participants, practitioners must have a clear view of their objectives and involve all stakeholders associated with delivery at the planning stage. Much of the delivery aspect aligned with notions of effective TDEs suggesting practitioners had a clear awareness of what works for them in their contexts. Reviewing the environment appeared to be the activity practitioners undertook the least, this may reflect the complex and dynamic nature of the environment in sports settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Mitchell
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Physical Activity, Leeds Beckett University, UK
| | | | - Adam Gledhill
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Physical Activity, Leeds Beckett University, UK
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3
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Hernández-Simal L, Calleja-González J, Larruskain J, Lorenzo Calvo A, Aurrekoetxea-Casaus M. Place Matters: A Study on the Influence of Birthplace and the Place of Development on Soccer Academy Players' Careers. Sports (Basel) 2024; 12:99. [PMID: 38668567 PMCID: PMC11054205 DOI: 10.3390/sports12040099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The effect of birthplace (the place where a player is born and grows up) is one of the key variables associated with soccer player development and achievement. However, recent studies have questioned the influence of contextual variables on selection and promotion processes related to birthplace. The main purposes of this study were: (1) establish whether there is a difference between the birthplace and sporting growth according to the stages of entry into the academy, (2) to evaluate the influence of geographical and contextual variables on sporting development, and (3) assess the chances of making a professional team debut. Applied logistic regression was used in order to analyse the birthplace and growth of 1411 male soccer players, of which 40.1% are incorporated in the U-12 category from a Spanish First division club, and the results showed a statistically significant association between a change from one's birthplace to the place of sporting growth and later success (79%). Key contextual variables such as number of inhabitants, population density, proximity to sports facilities, average household income and presence of sports clubs have been considered. The analysis of the contextual variables revealed that there was a positive relationship between certain variables, like a higher population, and being selected for the academy (p < 0.01; r = 0.28). Finally, the findings showed that players who experienced a geographical transition were 38% more likely to make a professional debut. The importance of considering the place of sporting growth when analysing the "birthplace effect" has therefore been demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julio Calleja-González
- Faculty of Education and Sport, University of Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 01007 Vitoria, Spain;
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Alberto Lorenzo Calvo
- Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences-INEF, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
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4
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Roy MM, Redlich D, Lamison E, Memmert D. The naturalness bias in sport. PSYCHOLOGY OF SPORT AND EXERCISE 2024; 70:102537. [PMID: 37703938 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2023.102537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
We examined the naturalness bias - the tendency to prefer people who seem to come by their talent naturally and not through work or effort - on ratings of athletic ability. Football (soccer) coaches, athletes, fans, and non-fans (n = 430) read about an athlete described as either being a natural or a striver. After watching a video of the athlete going through drills, participants rated the athlete on likelihood of success, athletic skill, mental strength, and physiological ability. Participants of all expertise levels tended to rate the athlete described as a natural as being higher in mental toughness than did the participants rating the athlete described as being a striver. There were no significant differences in ratings for the natural and the striver for measures of skill and explosiveness. It appears that the naturalness bias was most likely to influence ratings not easily judged by viewing a single performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael M Roy
- Elizabethtown College, USA; North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | | | - Emily Lamison
- Elizabethtown College, USA; University of Maryland, USA
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5
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Sweeney L, MacNamara Á, Taylor J. International selection and competition in youth sport: pin the tail on the donkey or targeted intervention? Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1298909. [PMID: 38186398 PMCID: PMC10768020 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1298909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Across sporting contexts, there is growing debate surrounding the utility of junior international age group selection in sport. In this regard, there has been considerable focus on the age of selection, with the low conversion of athletes from junior to senior international level often used to critique the efficiency of such programmes. In this perspective article, we argue that there is a need for a more nuanced consideration of the effectiveness of international age groups in talent systems. We begin this perspective article with a synthesis of the literature pertaining to junior to senior transitions in sport, followed by the implications and opportunity cost presented by international age groups. We argue for a more contextual evaluation of international age groups relative to the performance aims of a talent system, the need for manipulation of challenge dynamics, and the resource costs of doing so (e.g., providing developmental challenges for those who have early advantage, or spreading resource amongst greater numbers for broader impact). We suggest that talent systems evaluate the opportunity cost presented by international age groups, with decisions based upon individual strategic context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam Sweeney
- Department of Sport Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maynooth University, Kildare, Ireland
| | - Áine MacNamara
- School of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Science and Health, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jamie Taylor
- School of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Science and Health, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
- Insight SFI Centre for Data Analytics, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
- Grey Matters Performance Ltd., Stratford Upon Avon, United Kingdom
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6
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Thompson F, Rongen F, Cowburn I, Till K. What is it like to be a sport school student-athlete? A mixed method evaluation of holistic impacts and experiences. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289265. [PMID: 38033107 PMCID: PMC10688867 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Assessing the holistic impact of student-athletes within sport schools is important due to the increasing popularity of sport school programmes, the likelihood that most youth athletes do not ultimately succeed in their sport and the multiple and wide ranging positive and negative impacts associated with intensified youth sport. Therefore, this study, using a mixed method design, aimed to evaluate the 'in-time' holistic impacts and experiences of being a sport school student-athlete. Five data collection methods (i.e., online questionnaire, physical fitness testing battery, academic assessments grades, injury data and log diaries) were used to assess athletic, academic, psychological and psychosocial holistic impacts and experiences of 83 student-athletes from one sport school in the United Kingdom (UK). Due to the mixed method approach, a triangulation design was used whereby quantitative and qualitative data were firstly analysed separately and then integrated and presented together. Overall, the findings demonstrated there were a multitude of positive impacts and experiences associated with being a sport school student-athlete. These included: high average academic attainment, satisfaction with academic support, sport competence, all-round sport development, higher general and sport specific recovery than stress, inter- and intra-personal development, social support, positive peer and parent relationships and dual career motivation. However, impacts and experiences of concern were also apparent including: participation in sport external to the school context, difficulty balancing education and sport, academic lessons missed, injury, fatigue, lack of free time, extra-curricular and social sacrifice, social intensity and body image concerns. Large inter-individual variability was demonstrated across all data analyses highlighting the variable nature of the impacts and experiences of being a sports school student-athlete. Overall, sport schools have the potential to promote many positive holistic impacts, however stakeholders need to be aware, monitor and mitigate the potential negative impacts. Flexible development programmes, individualised support and student-athlete monitoring are essential features required of sport schools to ensure healthy and holistic development for all sport school student-athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ffion Thompson
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Fieke Rongen
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Cowburn
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Till
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, United Kingdom
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7
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Sehgal S, Chahal A, Esht V, Alshehri MM, Beg RA, Shaphe MA, Alajam RA, Kashoo FZ, Alghadir AH, Khan M. Unleashing potential and optimizing adolescent roller skating performance through a structured exercise program - a randomized controlled trial. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2023; 15:117. [PMID: 37735459 PMCID: PMC10515072 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-023-00728-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The intricate nature of an athlete's abilities evolves dynamically with the enhancement of motor skills. Hence the study sought to investigate the impact of a tailored four-week exercise program`encompassing exercises focused on balance, agility, and speed. The primary objective was to determine how this exercise program influences both the roller skating talent and overall physical fitness proficiency in young male roller skaters. METHODS Thirty male participants (age 11-14 years) enrolled in the school skating team were recruited. The participants were randomized into either an experimental group [n = 15], performing a short-term exercise program, or a control group [n = 15], involved in the physical education classes for eight sessions over four weeks. The primary outcome measure, the skating performance, was measured by the linear speed test (LST). The secondary outcomes, i.e., balance, agility, and speed, were evaluated using the star excursion balance test (SEBT), agility t-test (ATT), and arrowhead change of direction speed test (ACDT). SEBT was assessed in 8 directions. The study was registered with the Clinical Trials Registry India (TRN: CTRI/2018/09/015713) before the recruitment of the participants on 14/09/2018. RESULTS The results showed that LST, ATT, and ACDT improved significantly (p < 0.05) in both groups, however, greater (p < 0.05) improvement was observed in the experimental group (Cohen's d 0.8 to 1.3). Regarding SEBT, improvement was observed in a few directions only in both groups. However, no significant difference was observed between both groups in SEBT measurements. CONCLUSIONS A short-term structured exercise program consisting of balance, agility, and speed exercises significantly improved the talent of skating, agility, and speed compared to physical education classes activities in young male roller skaters. The study highlights the potential of targeted training interventions to enhance athletic performance in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonakshi Sehgal
- Department of Physiotherapy, Career Point University, Kota, India
| | - Aksh Chahal
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Medical and Allied Health Science, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vandana Esht
- Physical Therapy Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed M Alshehri
- Physical Therapy Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rashid Ali Beg
- Physical Therapy Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Abu Shaphe
- Physical Therapy Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ramzi Abdu Alajam
- Physical Therapy Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faizan Z Kashoo
- Department of Physical Therapy and Health Rehabilitation, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad H Alghadir
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box. 10219, Riyadh-11433, Saudi Arabia
| | - Masood Khan
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box. 10219, Riyadh-11433, Saudi Arabia.
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8
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Ortega FB, Leskošek B, Blagus R, Gil-Cosano JJ, Mäestu J, Tomkinson GR, Ruiz JR, Mäestu E, Starc G, Milanovic I, Tammelin TH, Sorić M, Scheuer C, Carraro A, Kaj M, Csányi T, Sardinha LB, Lenoir M, Emeljanovas A, Mieziene B, Sidossis LS, Pihu M, Lovecchio N, Konstabel K, Tambalis KD, Štefan L, Drenowatz C, Rubín L, Gontarev S, Castro-Piñero J, Vanhelst J, O'Keeffe B, Veiga OL, Gisladottir T, Sandercock G, Misigoj-Durakovic M, Niessner C, Riso EM, Popovic S, Kuu S, Chinapaw M, Clavel I, Labayen I, Dobosz J, Colella D, Kriemler S, Salaj S, Noriega MJ, Bös K, Sánchez-López M, Lakka TA, Tabacchi G, Novak D, Ahrens W, Wedderkopp N, Jurak G. European fitness landscape for children and adolescents: updated reference values, fitness maps and country rankings based on nearly 8 million test results from 34 countries gathered by the FitBack network. Br J Sports Med 2023; 57:299-310. [PMID: 36623866 PMCID: PMC9985767 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2022-106176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES (1) To develop reference values for health-related fitness in European children and adolescents aged 6-18 years that are the foundation for the web-based, open-access and multilanguage fitness platform (FitBack); (2) to provide comparisons across European countries. METHODS This study builds on a previous large fitness reference study in European youth by (1) widening the age demographic, (2) identifying the most recent and representative country-level data and (3) including national data from existing fitness surveillance and monitoring systems. We used the Assessing Levels of PHysical Activity and fitness at population level (ALPHA) test battery as it comprises tests with the highest test-retest reliability, criterion/construct validity and health-related predictive validity: the 20 m shuttle run (cardiorespiratory fitness); handgrip strength and standing long jump (muscular strength); and body height, body mass, body mass index and waist circumference (anthropometry). Percentile values were obtained using the generalised additive models for location, scale and shape method. RESULTS A total of 7 966 693 test results from 34 countries (106 datasets) were used to develop sex-specific and age-specific percentile values. In addition, country-level rankings based on mean percentiles are provided for each fitness test, as well as an overall fitness ranking. Finally, an interactive fitness platform, including individual and group reporting and European fitness maps, is provided and freely available online (www.fitbackeurope.eu). CONCLUSION This study discusses the major implications of fitness assessment in youth from health, educational and sport perspectives, and how the FitBack reference values and interactive web-based platform contribute to it. Fitness testing can be conducted in school and/or sport settings, and the interpreted results be integrated in the healthcare systems across Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco B Ortega
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Department of Physical and Sports Education; Sport and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), CIBERobn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Granada, Spain .,Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.,Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Bojan Leskošek
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Rok Blagus
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Institute for Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Medical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information technologies, University of Primorska, Glagoljaška, Slovenia
| | - José J Gil-Cosano
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Department of Physical and Sports Education; Sport and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), CIBERobn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Granada, Spain.,Department of Communication and Education, Universidad Loyola Andalucía, Dos Hermanas, Spain
| | - Jarek Mäestu
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Grant R Tomkinson
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), UniSA Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jonatan R Ruiz
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Department of Physical and Sports Education; Sport and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), CIBERobn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Granada, Spain.,Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria, ibs.Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Evelin Mäestu
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Gregor Starc
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ivana Milanovic
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tuija H Tammelin
- JAMK University of Applied Sciences, School of Health and Social Studies, LIKES, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Maroje Sorić
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,University of Zagreb, The Faculty of Kinesiology, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Claude Scheuer
- European Physical Education Association (EUPEA).,Department of Education and Social Work, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Attilio Carraro
- Faculty of Education, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Brixen, Italy
| | - Mónika Kaj
- Hungarian School Sport Federation, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Csányi
- Hungarian School Sport Federation, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Physical Education Theory and Methodology, Hungarian University of Sports Science, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Primary and Pre-School Education, ELTE, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Luis B Sardinha
- Exercise and Health Laboratory, CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, 1499-002 Cruz-Quebrada, Portugal
| | - Matthieu Lenoir
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Arunas Emeljanovas
- Lithuanian Sports University, Department of Physical and Social Education, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Brigita Mieziene
- Lithuanian Sports University, Department of Physical and Social Education, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Labros S Sidossis
- Mediterranean Lifestyle Medicine Institute and Department of Kinesiology and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, USA
| | - Maret Pihu
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Nicola Lovecchio
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy.,Confederation of Italian Associations of Physical Education Teachers (Capdi & LSM), Venezia, Italy
| | - Kenn Konstabel
- Department of Chronic Diseases, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia.,Institute of Psychology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Konstantinos D Tambalis
- Harokopio University, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Athens, Greece.,National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Athens, Greece
| | - Lovro Štefan
- University of Zagreb, The Faculty of Kinesiology, Zagreb, Croatia.,Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.,Recruitment and Examination (RECETOX), Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Clemens Drenowatz
- Division of Sport, Physical Activity and Health, University of Education Upper Austria, Linz, Austria
| | - Lukáš Rubín
- Institute of Active Lifestyle, Faculty of Physical Culture, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic.,Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Science, Humanities and Education, Technical University of Liberec, Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Seryozha Gontarev
- Faculty of Physical Education, Sport and Health. Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia
| | - José Castro-Piñero
- GALENO Research Group, Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Education Sciences, University of Cadiz, Puerto Real, Cadiz, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica de Cádiz (INiBICA), Cádiz, Spain
| | - Jérémy Vanhelst
- Sorbonne Paris Nord University, Inserm U1153, Inrae U1125, Cnam, Nutritional Epidemiology Research Team (EREN), Centre of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics - University of Paris Cité (CRESS), Bobigny, France
| | - Brendan O'Keeffe
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Oscar L Veiga
- EstiLIFE Research Group. Department of Physical Education, Sport and Human Movement, Faculty of Teaching Training and Education, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Thordis Gisladottir
- Center of Sport and Health Sciences, School of Education, University of Iceland, Reykjavik Iceland
| | - Gavin Sandercock
- School of Sport Rehabilitation and Exercise Science, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | | | - Claudia Niessner
- Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Riso
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Stevo Popovic
- University of Montenegro, Faculty for Sport and Physical Education, Niksic, Montenegro.,Western Balkan Sport Innovation Lab, Podgorica, Montenegro
| | - Saima Kuu
- Tallinn University, School of Natural Sciences and Health, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Mai Chinapaw
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Iván Clavel
- Galician Sport Foundation, General Sport Secretariat, Galician Government, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Performance and Health Group, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, Department of Physical Education and Sports, University of A Coruña, Coruña, Spain
| | - Idoia Labayen
- Research Institute for Innovation & Sustainable Food Chain Development, Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Janusz Dobosz
- Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dario Colella
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Susi Kriemler
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sanja Salaj
- University of Zagreb, The Faculty of Kinesiology, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maria Jose Noriega
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology University of Cantabria, Cantabria, Spain
| | - Klaus Bös
- Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Mairena Sánchez-López
- Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Health and Social Research Center, Cuenca, Spain.,Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, School of Education, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Timo A Lakka
- Institute of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio Campus, Finland.,Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland.,Foundation for Research in Health Exercise and Nutrition, Kuopio Research Institute of Exercise Medicine, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Garden Tabacchi
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Dario Novak
- University of Zagreb, The Faculty of Kinesiology, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Wolfgang Ahrens
- Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Niels Wedderkopp
- The Pediatric Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Gregor Jurak
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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9
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Ruscello B, Morganti G, Apollaro G, Saponara A, Esposito M, Marcelli L, Filetti C, Porta M, Grossi A, Pantanella L. Relative age effect in Italian soccer: a cultural issue in talent management? J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2023; 63:136-143. [PMID: 35437304 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.22.13663-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Relative age effect (RAE) is a well-known phenomenon among those involved in youth sports, especially when the sport being investigated is widespread and involves early selection for participation in national and international competitions. METHODS The purpose of this study was to verify whether the Italian youth soccer ecosystem has adapted to this issue over the years, comparing players born in 1995 and in 2005 and been playing in Under 16 teams in the appropriate years. The sample included 13 professional Italian soccer teams. The number of players analysed was 260 (1995) and 344 boys (2005), respectively, making a total of 604 players enrolled in this study. RESULTS Relative age effects were detected by χ2 goodness of fit tests both in players born in 1995 (P<0.000;V=0.40) and in 2005 (P<0.0001;V=0.39). χ2 test of independence showed no significant difference between the two groups of players (P=0.986;V=0.02), confirming a substantial parity of the phenomenon over the two investigated birth years. CONCLUSIONS Ten years of research and dissemination of RAE did not change the selection policies adopted by coaches and/or scouts, who favor relatively older players during the selection processes. Therefore, RAE appears as the result of the Talent Identification and Development Structures, characterized by early selection and early specialization, and which consider performance as the pre-requisite for gaining access to the next developmental stages. Sport organizations should be aware of this issue and counteract accordingly, since it is important to mitigate the presence of RAE, as it causes inequality of opportunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Ruscello
- School of Sports Sciences and Exercise, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy - .,School of Sports and Exercise Sciences, San Raffaele University, Rome, Italy - .,Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy - .,LUISS SportLab, LUISS University, Rome, Italy -
| | - Gabriele Morganti
- School of Sports Sciences and Exercise, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Gennaro Apollaro
- School of Sports Sciences and Exercise, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Saponara
- School of Sports Sciences and Exercise, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Esposito
- School of Sports Sciences and Exercise, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Marcelli
- School of Sports Sciences and Exercise, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy.,Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Marco Porta
- School of Sports and Exercise Sciences, San Raffaele University, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Grossi
- School of Sports Sciences and Exercise, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Pantanella
- School of Sports Sciences and Exercise, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
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10
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Thompson F, Rongen F, Cowburn I, Till K. A case study of the features and holistic athlete impacts of a UK sports-friendly school: Student-athlete, coach and teacher perspectives. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278401. [PMID: 36449512 PMCID: PMC9710759 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to understand the features of sport schools and their impacts on the holistic development of student-athletes, it is important to take into account the voice of multiple stakeholders central to the programmes (student-athletes, coaches, teachers). Through a case-study approach, using five focus groups, with 19 student-athletes, and six semi-structured interviews with three coaches and three dual coach and teachers, this study explored the perceived impacts of one sport-friendly school (pseudonym-"Salkeld High") on holistic athlete development and the features that drove these impacts. Using a critical realist approach to thematic analysis, findings indicated a multitude of immediate, intermediate and long-term positive and negative impacts associated with academic/vocational (e.g., academic security vs. second/third choice university), athletic/physical (e.g., performance development vs. injuries), psychosocial (e.g., social skills vs. social scarifies) and psychological (e.g., sport confidence vs. performance pressure) development of "Salkeld High" student-athletes. Overall, "Salkeld High" was viewed as an integrated school environment for sport, academics, and boarding, where academic (e.g., extra-tutoring), athletic (e.g., high volume/frequency of training), and psychosocial/psychological (e.g., pastoral services) features are all in one location. The student-athletes tended to get a well-rounded, balanced holistic experience. However, the intensified and challenging nature of involvement did present some negative impacts that stakeholders should be aware of when designing, implementing, and evaluating sport-friendly school programmes. Furthermore, although "Salkeld High" was seen as an integrated environment within the school, it could do better at collaborating with wider sporting structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ffion Thompson
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Fieke Rongen
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Cowburn
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Till
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, United Kingdom
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11
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Thompson F, Rongen F, Cowburn I, Till K. The Impacts of Sports Schools on Holistic Athlete Development: A Mixed Methods Systematic Review. Sports Med 2022; 52:1879-1917. [PMID: 35260992 PMCID: PMC9325842 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-022-01664-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Background To understand the multiple and wide-ranging impacts of intensified youth sport, the need for a holistic approach to athlete development has recently been advocated. Sports schools are an increasingly popular operationalisation of intensified youth sport, aiming to offer an optimal environment for holistic development by combining sport and education. Yet, no study has systematically explored the impacts associated with sports schools. Objectives The aims of this mixed method systematic review were to (1) determine the characteristics and features of sports schools; (2) identify the methods used to evaluate sports school impacts, and (3) evaluate the positive and negative holistic athlete development impacts associated with sports school programme involvement. Methods Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, eight electronic databases were searched until the final return in February 2021. Forty-six articles satisfied the inclusion criteria, were analysed thematically, and synthesised using a narrative approach. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Results Findings indicated (1) sports school student-athletes receive considerable support in terms of academic and athletic services, more intensified training and competition schedules with high-level training partners, but regularly miss school; (2) multiple methods have been used to evaluate student-athlete impacts, making comparison across studies and developing consensus on the impacts of sports schools difficult; and (3) there are a multitude of immediate, short- and long-term positive and negative impacts associated with the academic/vocational, athletic/physical, psychosocial and psychological development of sports school student-athletes. Conclusions This study is the first to systematically review the research literature to understand the impacts associated with sports schools in terms of holistic athlete development. Practitioners should be aware that they can promote (positive) and negate (negative) health impacts through the design of an appropriate learning environment that simultaneously balances multiple training, academic, psychosocial and psychological factors that can be challenging for youth athletes. We recommend that practitioners aim to design and implement monitoring and evaluation tools that assess the holistic development of student-athletes within their sports schools to ensure they are promoting all-round and healthy youth athlete development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ffion Thompson
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK. .,Queen Ethelburga's College, Thorpe Underwood, York, UK. .,Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Room G07, Cavendish Hall, Headingley Campus, Leeds, LS6 3QS, UK.
| | - Fieke Rongen
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Ian Cowburn
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Kevin Till
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
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12
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Till K, Lloyd RS, McCormack S, Williams G, Baker J, Eisenmann JC. Optimising long-term athletic development: An investigation of practitioners' knowledge, adherence, practices and challenges. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262995. [PMID: 35077515 PMCID: PMC8789126 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term athletic development practices have been recommended for the past two decades. However, limited research exists exploring the knowledge and skills required by practitioners to optimise long-term athletic development. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, adherence, practices, and challenges of practitioners responsible for delivering long-term athletic development. A mixed methods survey was completed by 236 practitioners (e.g., sport coaches, physical education teachers) consisting of four parts; 1) demographics, 2) knowledge, 3) adherence, and 4) practices and challenges. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed by Friedman’s analysis of variance and thematic analyses, respectively. Quantitative findings showed practitioners 1) recognised their responsibility for delivering long-term athletic development, 2) have a familiarity with existing developmental models, and 3) had high adherence, focused upon health and wellbeing, to delivering long-term athletic development. However, practices associated with growth and maturity, monitoring and assessment, and the systematic progression and individualisation of training had lower adherence. Qualitative analysis indicated that practitioner’s perceived definitions of athleticism and long-term athletic development were inconsistent, especially according to the psychological components (i.e., confidence). Practitioners’ descriptions of their long-term athletic development practices identified two higher order themes; 1) goals, in which long-term athletic development “is for life” and the importance of “an individual centered journey” highlighted as sub-themes; and 2) realities of delivering long-term athletic development, whereby variety in programme delivery, monitoring development and practical challenges were noted as key priorities. Eight practical challenges were identified including governance and priorities, resources, education, early specialization, high training volumes, staff communication, parents and youth motivation. This mixed method survey highlighted a multitude of knowledge, adherence, practices and challenges towards long-term athletic development. These novel findings can help inform policy to optimise long-term athletic development and to support the complex problem of developing a healthier, fitter and more physically active youth population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Till
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Rhodri S. Lloyd
- Youth Physical Development Centre, Cardiff School of Sport, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), AUT University, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Sport Science and Human Performance, Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Sam McCormack
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | | | - Joseph Baker
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joey C. Eisenmann
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
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13
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Robertson K, Laureys F, Mostaert M, Pion J, Deconinck FJ, Lenoir M. Mind, body, and shuttle: multidimensional benchmarks for talent identification in male youth badminton. Biol Sport 2022; 39:79-94. [PMID: 35173367 PMCID: PMC8805363 DOI: 10.5114/biolsport.2021.101603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to identify benchmarks for anthropometric, physical performance, motor coordination, and psychological characteristics by comparing youth badminton players of different levels through the use of a multifactorial test battery. Sixty-one male participants aged 12-18 years were divided into three groups: elite (N = 10), sub-elite (N = 24), and novice (N = 27). Standard test batteries for anthropometry (including measures to estimate biological maturity), physical performance, and motor coordination were applied, as well as the modified PCDEQ2 questionnaire for psychological characteristics of youth athletes (Hill, 2016). Multivariate analyses of covariance (MANCOVAs) with age and biological maturity as covariates were used to investigate differences between skill levels. A discriminant analysis was used to reveal to what extent participants could be correctly assigned to their skill group. Significant differences were found in physical performance (explosive power, flexibility, speed, and endurance), BMI and motor coordination. In the psychological domain, perfectionism was found to be significantly different and elites scored highest. The discriminant analysis showed that 100% of the participants were correctly classified and 80.0% were correctly cross validated. These results significantly add to the previously limited youth players' reference values, and confirm the value of a generic, i.e. without sport-specific testing, multifactorial approach to talent identification in youth badminton.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Felien Laureys
- Ghent University – Department of Movement and Sports Science
| | | | - Johan Pion
- HAN University of Applied Sciences, Department of Sport & Exercise Studies
| | | | - Matthieu Lenoir
- Ghent University – Department of Movement and Sports Science
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14
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Abstract
Context: The assumed risks of early specialization in sport are well known, with several international consensus statements advising against specialization in early athlete development. However, there have been recent calls for more focused research in this area. Evidence Acquisition: Research evidence from several scientific disciplines (eg, sport psychology, sports medicine, human development) were synthesized to develop a framework for practitioners working with adolescent athletes. Study Design: Narrative review. Level of Evidence: Level 4. Results: There appear to be risks associated with a highly specialized approach to athlete training, but the mechanisms driving these effects are largely unknown. Greater attention to understanding these mechanisms would help mitigate risk and develop stronger policy for athlete development. Recommendations for program modifications are provided. Conclusion: Early specialization remains an important topic for researchers and practitioners working with youth and adolescent athletes. However, more work needs to be done to provide truly evidence-based recommendations for youth athlete training.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin Till
- Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, England, UK
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15
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Constructing an artificial intelligence strategy algorithm for the identification of talented rowing athletes. Soft comput 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00500-021-06050-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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16
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Boccia G, Cardinale M, Brustio PR. Performance progression of elite jumpers: Early performances do not predict later success. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2020; 31:132-139. [PMID: 32881090 DOI: 10.1111/sms.13819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed (a) to estimate the transition rate for top 50 ranked track and field jumpers, (b) to compare the performance progression of top 50 ranked senior jumpers (top50 senior) to those who failed to be top 50 ranked in the senior category despite being top 50 ranked in the under 18 category (only U18), and (c) to verify whether relative age effect may at least partially explain the differences in the two above-mentioned subgroups. The career performance trajectories of 5981 athletes (2837 females) competing in jump events from 2000 to 2019 were extracted from the World Athletics database. The all-time top 50 ranked athletes for each age from 16 years to senior category were identified. Performance progression characteristics were compared using linear mixed-effects model. Only 8% of males and 16% of females top 50 ranked at the age of 16 years managed to be included among the top50 senior. Only U18subgroup made the first appearance in the database (at 15-16 years) and reached the peak performance (at 20 years) earlier than top50 senior (17-18 and 26-27 years, respectively). The relative age effect was largely present in Only U18 but not in top50 senior subgroups. Most of the early-successful U18 world-class jumpers did not manage to maintain the same level of competitiveness in adulthood since they experienced a plateau in performance from 20 years of age. Conversely, top 50 ranked senior jumpers continued to produce consistent performance improvement up to 26-27 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Boccia
- NeuroMuscularFunction, Research Group, School of Exercise & Sport Sciences, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Marco Cardinale
- Research and Scientific Support Department, Aspetar Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar.,Faculty of Sport, Health and Wellbeing, Plymouth MARJON University, Plymouth, UK.,Department of Computer Science and Institute of Sport Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Paolo Riccardo Brustio
- NeuroMuscularFunction, Research Group, School of Exercise & Sport Sciences, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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17
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Hu B, Liu Y, Zhang X, Dong X. Understanding regional talent attraction and its influencing factors in China: From the perspective of spatiotemporal pattern evolution. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234856. [PMID: 32555616 PMCID: PMC7302713 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Talents are not only an important strategic resource for promoting regional development but also a core element for maintaining competitiveness. We organize the evaluation index system of regional talent attraction into the following four aspects: regional development, industry development, income and regional environment. Combined with the talent possession of 31 provinces (cities) from 2010 to 2018, we establish a regression equation of the relationship between the evaluation index and talent possession by using a stepwise regression and the Bayesian prior function. Simultaneously, we apply the spatial autocorrelation analysis method to measure the correlation and agglomeration degree of the talent attraction level of provinces and municipalities in China. The results reveal the following. (1) From 2010 to 2018, the talent attractiveness level of China's provinces shows a steady upward trend with an average annual growth rate of 5.804%. The regional environment has the highest score, and the income level has the lowest score. (2) The level of talent attraction in China shows a decreasing trend from east to west, and the ranking in 2018 was "East Coast > North Coast > Southern Coast > Middle Yangtze River > Middle Yellow River > Southwest > Northeast > Greater Northwest". The trend of spatial agglomeration is apparent and gradually increases over the years. The numbers of hot and cold spots are relatively large and concentrated in the eastern coast and western region, respectively. (3) The level of economic development, quality of people's life, and level of the development of the tertiary industry have a great impact on the attractiveness of talents. Talents also pay more attention to regional medical, education and transportation indicators. These research results can provide some guidance and references for the formulation of talent introduction policies in various provinces and municipalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beibei Hu
- School of Business, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingying Liu
- School of Business, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Zhang
- School of Business, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Xianlei Dong
- School of Business, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
- * E-mail:
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18
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Rongen F, McKenna J, Cobley S, Tee JC, Till K. Psychosocial outcomes associated with soccer academy involvement: Longitudinal comparisons against aged matched school pupils. J Sports Sci 2020; 38:1387-1398. [DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2020.1778354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fieke Rongen
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Jim McKenna
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Stephen Cobley
- Faculty of Health Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jason Cameron Tee
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Department of Sport Studies, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Kevin Till
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
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19
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Till K, Baker J. Challenges and [Possible] Solutions to Optimizing Talent Identification and Development in Sport. Front Psychol 2020; 11:664. [PMID: 32351427 PMCID: PMC7174680 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The modern-day landscape of Olympic and Professional sport is arguably more competitive than ever. One consequence of this is the increased focus on identifying and developing early athletic talent. In this paper, we highlight key challenges associated with talent (athlete) identification and development and propose possible solutions that could be considered by research and practice. The first challenge focuses on clarifying the purposes of talent identification initiatives such as defining what talent is and how its meaning might evolve over time. Challenge two centers on ways to best identify, select and develop talent, including issues with different approaches to identification, the need to understand the impact of development and the need to have appropriate resourcing in the system to support continued development of knowledge. Finally, we discuss two challenges in relation to the 'healthiness' of talent identification and development. The first examines whether a talent identification and development system is 'healthy' for athletes while the second focuses on how sport stakeholders could discourage the apparent trend toward early specialization in youth sport settings. Whilst this paper discusses the research in relation to these challenges, we propose multiple possible solutions that researchers and practitioners could consider for optimizing their approach to talent identification and development. In summary, talent is a complex and largely misunderstood phenomenon lacking robust research evidence, and given concerns that it is potentially unhealthy, talent identification and selection at younger ages is not recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Till
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Baker
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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20
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Curran O, MacNamara A, Passmore D. What About the Girls? Exploring the Gender Data Gap in Talent Development. Front Sports Act Living 2019; 1:3. [PMID: 33344927 PMCID: PMC7739739 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2019.00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although there is an extensive literature about talent development, the lack of data pertaining to females is problematic. Indeed, the gender data gap can be seen in practically all domains including sport and exercise medicine. Evidence-based practice is the systematic reviewing of the best evidence in order to make informed choices about practice. Unfortunately, it may be that the data collected in sport is typically about male experiences, and not female; a rather unfortunate omission given that approximately half of the population is made up of women. When female athletes are underrepresented in research there are issues when making inferences about data collected in male dominated research domains to inform practice and policy for female athletes. In parallel, female sport participation is continually increasing worldwide. Recognizing the importance of evidence-based practice in driving policy and practice, and reflecting the gender data gap that is a consistent feature of (almost) all other domains, we were interested in examining whether a gender data gap exists in talent development research. The results suggest that a gender data gap exists in talent development research across all topics. Youth athlete development pathways may be failing to recognize the development requirements of females, particularly where female sports may be borrowing systems that are perceived to work for their male counterparts. In order to ensure robust evidence based practice in female youth sport there is a need to increase the visibility of female athletes in talent development literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orlaith Curran
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
- Institute for Sport and Health, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aine MacNamara
- Institute of Coaching and Performance, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, United Kingdom
| | - David Passmore
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
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