TABLE 1.

Overview of the challenges and (possible) solutions to Talent Identification and Development.

Challenges		Possible solutions
(1) What are we looking for?	(A) Clarifying definitions – what is talent?	simple • Understand ‘what is talent (it is not a fixed capacity and develops over time) simple • Talent ID vs. Performance ID – The Matrix simple • Develop evidence for talent indicators within sport specific systems, including… simple • Measures and criteria within specific sports that help identify talent simple • Employ retrospective research/tracking designs to monitor characteristics of young athletes aligned to future success
	(B). Understanding sport and predicting the future	simple • Develop a performance/mental model for the sport simple • Design research studies to evaluate sport performance simple • Develop coaching vision - the ability to predict the future
(2) What are the most effective ways to identify, select, and develop talent?	(A) Identifying Talent	simple • Consider the timing of talent identification simple • Allow flexibility to move across (or within a system) – be fluid simple • Monitor the efficacy of the TIDS decisions simple • Develop sport specific, multi-disciplinary tools that can monitor athletes reliably over time simple • Use the Coach as an applied scientist – they have data (although may not know it!). How can this be used and shared?
	(B) Understanding development (biological-psychological-social)	simple • Coach education – Pediatric Science and Biological-Psychological-Social development simple • Delay identification or provide more opportunities simple • Assess maturity status and interpret data according to maturity alongside age simple • Consider grouping strategies (e.g., shirt ordering and bio-banding) to equalize competition and identification opportunities
	(C) Resourcing the System	simple • Effective use of resource – creating more opportunities simple • Supporting coach education and training simple • Funding basic and applied research
(3) Health considerations for TIDS	(A) Are TIDS appropriate and healthy?	simple • Awareness of TIDS impact on athlete health simple • Design appropriate learning and development environments with a balance of activities in and outside of sport simple • Align day-to-day practitioner behaviors to promote athlete health simple • Develop TID programs and practices that allow sampling of a range of sports and integrative neuromuscular training
	(B) Is early specialization necessary?	simple • Clear message that sport sampling is a positive outcome with long-term benefits simple • Application and reinforcement of the message from key stakeholders, coaches, teachers and parents