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Talent Identification and Development of Elite Youth Badminton Players: Social, Environmental, Coaching, and Sport Support Factors

Lee Kok Sonk(1), Tan Wen Yang(2),


(1) National Institute of Education (NIE), Nanyang Technological University
(2) National Institute of Education (NIE), Nanyang Technological University
Corresponding Author

Abstract


This study examined talent identification and development among elite youth badminton players in Singapore, emphasizing social, environmental, coaching, and institutional influences. A retrospective descriptive approach combined surveys, open-ended questionnaires, and focus group discussions with athletes and coaches. Talent development is shaped by family involvement, relative age, school support, coaching quality, competition opportunities, financial assistance, and access to sport science services. Competition and trials were important mechanisms for player identification, while coaching emerged as central developmental support. Challenges were also identified in early specialization, unequal opportunities, and transitions from youth to senior competition. The study highlights the need for an integrated, longitudinal talent-development system involving athletes, families, schools, coaches, sporting organizations, and sport science support.

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