We know that youth development is complex and this is particularly relevant for young people who are experiencing massive change through their teenage years. Ensuring the physical development of young players is one of many coaching challenges we face when working with young people. In this Masterclass Discussion, PDP Co-founder Dave Wright hosts two top experts in athlete development and human movement. Dan Cooke is an A Licensed coach with experience at all levels and is currently completing his PhD through the Sport Research Institute…
human movement
What is the cognitive process of elite athletes working at their peak? In this article, researcher Dr. Laurie Rauch discusses the various levels of thought, conscious and subconscious, behind human movement in sport. An athlete’s movement on the sports field is largely an automatic process that is coordinated subconsciously. The only voluntary part of movement is its intended goal (Rauch et al. 2013); the movement itself essentially consists of a chain of reflexes (Evarts 1980), (Lacquaniti et al. 2012). Indeed, thinking or reasoning about…
Human movement is a fascinating topic and Player Development Project is fortunate enough to have discovered a group of researchers applying ideas of Taijiquan (Tai Chi) in a football context in South Africa. Researcher, Dr. Laurie Rauch discusses some of the science behind human movement in sport. An athlete’s movement on the sports field is largely an automatic process. Coordination of movement best left to subcortical brain structures. Thinking kept to a minimum. The only conscious part of movement should be the goal of the…
Fundamental movement is crucial to well being and player development. PDP Lead Researcher, James Vaughan discusses some of the myths around specialisation and the advantages to looking outside of conventional sport to ensure your players get educated in fundamental movements. On June 18th, 2016, Nick Levett (FA Talent Identification Manager & regular PDP contributor) highlighted some of the myths that still dominate football development: The myths of specialisation. These myths can lead to some pretty harmful consequences, particularly physical and psychological burn out. I’ve experienced both: I played football…