Talent Identification & Development Strategy

Athlete Development & Competition Framework

St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation (STF)

Talent Identification & Development Strategy

1. Purpose

This strategy provides a structured, long-term approach to identifying, nurturing, and retaining talented Taekwondo athletes in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Given our small population, limited sporting infrastructure, and financial constraints, the STF must maximize its reach and efficiency in order to produce athletes who can succeed at regional, continental, and international levels. This strategy ensures that talent is spotted early, supported consistently, and developed systematically through a clear pathway from grassroots to elite performance.

2. Guiding Principles

Inclusivity – Opportunities for discovery and development must be open to all communities across the islands.
Equity of Access – Remove barriers to participation, especially for youth in rural and underserved areas.
Holistic Development – Nurture not only physical and technical skills but also mental, emotional, and social qualities.
Evidence-Based Decisions – Selection and development should be guided by measurable performance data.
Community Partnerships – Collaborate with schools, clubs, and community organizations to widen the talent pool.

3. Talent Identification

The STF will use a multi-point detection system to identify potential athletes:

a) Grassroots Outreach

Host school-based Taekwondo introduction programs across all parishes.
Partner with the Ministry of Education and local community centers to provide trial sessions.

b) Talent Search Events

Organize annual Talent ID Camps that include skill challenges, agility tests, and sparring demonstrations.
Invite non-Taekwondo athletes from other sports with transferable skills (e.g., track, football, netball) to attend.

c) Club-Level Scouting

Club instructors will actively monitor beginner classes for athletes showing exceptional coordination, discipline, and coachability.

d) National Database

Maintain a central STF Talent Tracking Database to monitor the progress of identified athletes over time.

4. Development Pathway

Once identified, athletes will enter a tiered development pathway:

Foundation Stage (Ages 6–10)
Focus on fundamental movement skills and fun-based introduction to Taekwondo.
Emphasis on correct technique, flexibility, and coordination.
Emerging Talent Stage (Ages 11–14)
Increased training volume with focus on basic tactical awareness.
Participation in local and regional competitions.
Talent Development Stage (Ages 15–18)
Advanced skill refinement, mental preparation, and structured strength & conditioning programs.
Entry into national team development squads.
Elite Performance Stage (18+)
High-performance coaching, sports science support, and exposure to international tournaments.
Individualized periodized training programs.

5. Support Systems

To retain and grow talent, the STF will:

Provide financial assistance or sponsorship connections for travel and equipment.
Partner with schools and employers to allow flexible training schedules.
Offer sports psychology, nutrition, and injury prevention education.

6. Monitoring & Evaluation

Biannual assessments of technical skills, fitness levels, and competition results.
Athlete Progress Reports shared with the athlete, parents, and coaches.
Athletes may be promoted, retained, or released from the program based on performance and commitment.

7. Bridging the Island Gap

Given the limited resources in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, this strategy will focus on:

Maximizing shared resources between clubs.
Using online training platforms to connect remote athletes with expert coaches.
Building partnerships with regional federations for cross-training and competition opportunities.

8. Review

This strategy will be reviewed every two years to ensure it remains relevant, sustainable, and effective in producing high-performing athletes.