Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) Plan

St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation (STF)

Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) Plan

Purpose

The St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation (STF) Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) Plan is designed to guide the holistic development of Taekwondo athletes from grassroots participation to elite performance, while promoting lifelong engagement in the sport.

This plan recognizes the unique context of St. Vincent and the Grenadines — a small island nation with limited sports funding, scarce high-performance facilities, and logistical challenges that can restrict athlete development. Too often, talented athletes are lost in the gap between grassroots enthusiasm and the resources required to reach the international stage.

The LTAD seeks to bridge that gap by providing a clear, structured pathway that maximizes the potential of every athlete, coach, and club, regardless of resource constraints. By applying international best practices in training, competition, and athlete welfare — and adapting them to the Vincentian reality — this plan proves that world-class results can be achieved through strategic planning, efficient use of resources, and strong community networks.

It also aims to demonstrate to the wider nation what can be accomplished when sport is properly managed, transparently governed, and holistically supported. Through this model, the STF will not only develop champions in Taekwondo but will also contribute to building stronger youth engagement, healthier communities, and a culture of sporting excellence that inspires the next generation.

The LTAD ensures that every participant — from a 5-year-old stepping into the dojang for the first time, to an experienced black belt competing on the world stage — has a safe, inclusive, and sustainable pathway to grow, achieve, and give back to the sport.

Stage 1: Active Start (Ages 4–6)

Focus

Introduce children to movement in a fun, safe, and positive environment. Training emphasizes play-based learning, body awareness, and social interaction rather than formal competition. The aim is to make Taekwondo an enjoyable experience that lays the groundwork for healthy habits, confidence, and a love of physical activity.

Goals

• Develop fundamental movement skills such as running, jumping, turning, kicking, and balance.

• Introduce basic Taekwondo techniques in a game-like format.

• Foster social skills like teamwork, respect for others, and following instructions.

• Help children feel comfortable in a dojang environment and develop discipline through routine.

• Encourage family involvement to strengthen support networks from the start.

Stage 2: FUNdamentals (Ages 6–9)

Focus

Build a wide base of physical and mental skills. The focus remains on fun and participation, but classes begin to introduce more structured Taekwondo movements and basic tactical awareness. Coaches encourage creativity, problem-solving, and self-confidence through a mix of martial arts and other athletic activities.

Goals

• Continue developing physical literacy while introducing age-appropriate technical skills.

• Teach respect for the rules and etiquette of Taekwondo.

• Develop coordination, agility, and reaction time through drills and games.

• Introduce structured but friendly in-club competitions.

• Instill the habit of regular training and self-improvement.

Stage 3: Learn to Train (Ages 9–12)

Focus

Athletes are ready for more technical instruction and increased physical demands. The emphasis is on refining core Taekwondo skills while expanding tactical understanding. Coaches build solid habits in training, preparation, and self-discipline.

Goals

• Achieve a strong technical foundation in poomsae, sparring, and self-defense applications.

• Develop basic tactical thinking and when to apply specific techniques.

• Encourage consistent practice both in and out of formal classes.

• Introduce basic conditioning and flexibility routines for injury prevention.

• Prepare athletes for formal competition pathways while keeping it positive.

Stage 4: Train to Train (Ages 12–16)

Focus

A shift toward higher commitment levels and targeted development. Athletes learn how to train effectively—understanding periodization, recovery, and goal-setting. Training volume and intensity increase with greater attention to conditioning, advanced technical skills, and competition preparation.

Goals

• Build high-level technical competence and refine tactical strategies.

• Develop structured physical conditioning programs.

• Improve mental skills such as focus, resilience, and emotional control.

• Establish time-management skills to balance school, training, and personal life.

• Create clear individual development plans.

Stage 5: Train to Compete (Ages 16–20)

Focus

Refine performance for competitive success at national, regional, and international levels. Training becomes highly specialized, with periodized plans tailored to competition schedules. Athletes are expected to commit fully while maintaining well-being.

Goals

• Optimize performance in high-pressure environments.

• Develop advanced tactical awareness and adaptability.

• Maintain peak physical conditioning with proper recovery.

• Build psychological skills for confidence and composure.

• Gain significant competition experience nationally and internationally.

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Stage 6: Train to Win (Ages 20+)

Focus

Peak performance stage, maximizing competitive results at the highest level—Pan American Games, World Championships, and the Olympics. Focus is on marginal gains, specialized preparation, and sustaining elite performance over time.

Goals

• Deliver consistent high-level performance against world-class competition.

• Refine tactical execution to elite standards with minimal errors.

• Maintain optimal conditioning, technical skill, and mental readiness.

• Utilize cutting-edge sports science and analytics.

• Serve as ambassadors and role models for younger athletes.

Stage 7: Active for Life (Any Age)

Focus

Ensures athletes remain engaged in Taekwondo as a lifelong activity. Includes recreational training, coaching, officiating, and community involvement. Focus on maintaining health, sharing knowledge, and fostering the next generation.

Goals

• Promote Taekwondo as a lifelong sport for health and wellness.

• Encourage retired or non-competitive athletes to coach, referee, or mentor.

• Offer recreational practice, veterans’ competitions, and demonstrations.

• Foster intergenerational connections within the Taekwondo community.

• Promote inclusivity for all ages and abilities.

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LTAD Implementation Action Plan