Youth Triathlete Pathway
The Tri NZ Youth Triathlete Pathway highlights the key considerations for 7-19-year-olds participating in triathlon. For simplicity's sake the pathway is primarily based on age, however, Tri NZ acknowledges that there will be exceptions to an age-based athletic development model and these cases should be treated on an individual basis. An Emerging Elite youth stage* is included to reflect both the International Triathlon Union's (ITU) provision of an under-19 world championship race and the specific demands of competing at this level, as well as the research which highlights the differentiated needs of young athletes pursuing recreational versus elite sport.
To view the Tri NZ Youth Triathlete Pathway document click HERE
Supporting document
To download Guidelines for Participation in Youth Sport Programs: Specialization Versus Multiple-Sport Participation (National Association for Sport and Physical Education Position Statement) click HERE
"First coaches" can make all the difference
There are many factors which influence a young athlete's participation and achievement in sport but research shows one of the most influential is a coach. Indeed, the "first coach” is critical to hooking the young athlete into a sport. First coaches are able to create the psychosocial environment that "hooks” the athlete. For example, many champions go through a ‘romance' phase early in their careers, meaning that they seem to fall in love with their sport. And this love of the sport is important because without that love most young or beginner athletes are unlikely to continue participating. In short, great coaches help create great sport experiences which athletes want to repeat.
So, if you are thinking about getting a coach make sure you (or mum. dad, or whoever looks after you) consider the following:
Is the coach Tri NZ accredited? Does the coach like helping with young people? What experience have they got coaching young athletes? Do they understand the characteristics and needs of youth, particularly the physical changes associated with growth? Are they able to coach the fundamental skills of swimming, cycling, and running? How much time will they spend with you? Do they have an athlete-centred approach to coaching? Will they be able to get to events? Do you feel you would like being coached by this person?
If the coach you are considering gets a "YES" for all or most of these questions, then it's likely you have a found a good youth coach. If you have any questions about how to choose a coach contact Brett Reid at brett.reid@triathlon.org.nz. Or go to the "What to look for in a coach" page in the Coaches section of this website.
The path to greatness
To view a one-page resource discussing the factors which contribute to sporting success CLICK HERE.
Rules!
To dowload the Tri NZ Competition Rules CLICK HERE.
To download the ITU Competition Rules CLICK HERE.
