Developing an Adapted Talent Identification Framework in girls football for primary schools in Sanyati District

Abstract

Talent identification and development are fundamental aspects of sporting activities. Players who have the potential to excel in future must be identified and developed so that they realise their potential. There is a need to have proper strategies for identifying and developing talent. vii The purpose of the research was to develop an adapted talent identification framework in girls’ football for primary schools in Sanyati District. An inductive approach was used in the research. The research was based on the traditional and contemporary models of talent identification and development. A cross-sectional approach was used in the research. An exploratory approach was used to gain new insights into talent identification and development in women football in Sanyati District. Respondents in the research included thirty (30) coaches, twenty-three (23) sports directors, four (4) agents and seven (7) school headsthat completed questionnaires. Seven (7), seven (7) sports directors, four (4) agents and one (1) headwere interviewed. Data collected from questionnaires were analysed using SPSS version 21 and data collected from interviews were analysed using NVivo. The findings of the study were that the traditional methods of talent identification in the Sanyati District have significant gaps and limitations. These include the lack of standardized assessment tools, limited consideration of training protocols and long-term talent development, and minimal integration of technology. These gaps hinder the accuracy and effectiveness of talent identification, potentially leading to resources being invested in developing the wrong athletes. Based on these findings, a set of recommendations has been formulated to address the identified gaps and enhance talent identification practices in women's football for primary schools in the Sanyati District. These recommendations emphasize the need for collaboration and partnerships, standardized assessment tools, comprehensive training and development programs, long-term talent development pathways, needs assessment, and technological integration. Table of