Elite or recreational programs?

There comes a time in all young athletic careers when athletes need to choose to compete at the recreational or elite (“select”) level. The difference between the two levels is very subtle in some sporting organizations but vastly different in others. However, the commonality is that both are governed by a set of policies and procedures for the athletes, coaches, and parents (youth sports) to follow.

 

The athlete, regardless of age, should have input when deciding which program to enter. Of course the parents of young children (three to seven years) would not need to make such a decision as very few sports separate into elite and recreational programs in that age range, and nor should they. However, with the ever increasing number of high level (elite) performance programs, and with select/representative teams starting earlier in youth sport in today’s sporting world, athletes as young as eight years old are faced with this decision.

 

Before making this decision many factors need to be considered and/or “checked off”. Firstly for most elite level programs athletes will need to go through a tryout or selection process, and it is extremely important that this process is conducted by a professional staff, who can accurately determine whether the athletes are physically, psychologically, and emotional “ready” for the demands of the elite program.

 

After the selection process the athlete and parents should gather all the relevant information about both programs. The programs will likely differ in the following areas; cost, time commitments, player/parent accountability, rules and regulations etc… with the elite level program requiring higher demands in all areas.

 

Once an accurate evaluation has been conducted, and the information has been gathered a period of time for reflection and decision making should be allowed. If the athlete has been selected by a competent coaching staff, and the athlete and support group (family) can commit to the demands of the program, and lastly the athlete has a desire to play at the elite level then an informed decision can be made.

Craig Dalrymple

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