The process of talent development (TD) is essential to success in any sport. Drawing on the latest evidence and a considerable experience base, the second edition of this book dispels myths about talent development and offers practical advice on the TD pathway from pre-school to elite level. Aimed at practitioners and other stakeholders involved in the TD process – including coaches, scientists, administrators, educators, students, parents, policymakers and senior development athletes – this is an up-to-date practical guide to TD in sport.

Written by experts with more than 20 years of experience in TD training, coaching and research, it covers key topics from deliberate practice and fundamental movement skills to designing and managing a TD pathway. It also includes contributions from professionals working in a wide range of sports, providing real-world insights into important topics including:

• the recruitment process,
• academy and apprenticeship preparation,
• the coach-athlete relationship,
• what to do to stay ahead, and
• considerations for parents and coaches.

Talent Development: A Practitioner and Parents Guide is an indispensable resource for all those interested in talent identification, talent development and coaching practice in elite sport.

Dave Collins is a Professorial Fellow in Human Performance Science at University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom, and Director of Grey Matters Performance Ltd. He is a qualified PE teacher, coach and psychologist and has worked with over 80 World or Olympic medallists plus professional sports teams, dancers, musicians and executives in business and public service.

Áine MacNamara is an Associate Professor in Elite Performance at the Dublin City University, Ireland. Her background is in physical education, coaching and talent development and she has worked with young people in a range of sporting environments as an educator, coach and consultant.