Young athletes development pathway

Development pathway and stages of training

The younger age groups can try a range of different activities and events.

The key aims of training at this stage are:

• FUNdamentals: to learn fundamental movement and sport skills, doing so through a variety of games and activities

• Transition group: learning to train - building fitness and having the opportunity to try a range of different events to hone specific sport/event skills

As athletes develop and get older, they will then move on to event-specific groups, where they begin to specialise in one or two areas. The key aims of training are:

• training to compete: to refine skills for a specific event or position

• training to win: to maximise performance in competition.

The Young Athlete Membership Secretary will help you with any queries you have related to becoming a junior member.

Movement between groups

The movement of athletes between our groups is done on a developmental basis, not purely on chronological age (although that is one of several factors considered).

Everyone develops differently, and as such, we want to make sure each athlete is in the right group for their stage of development. Athletes move between groups at a time that is right for them, based on factors including:

• training experience

• skills development

• physical development

• commitment to training/competition and peer group considerations.

Research suggests that doing a broad range of events and sports when younger best develops athletes for future success. We believe it is essential not to specialise in just one event too early. Hence we ensure all younger athletes have the opportunity to try a bit of everything!