The Athletic Skills Model offers an alternative to dominant talent
development theories in the form of holistic broad-based movement
education, focusing on health and wellbeing. It places the emphasis on
'physical intelligence' - including attributes such as agility,
flexibility and stability - through adaptable and varied training
programmes, creating a skilled athlete before introducing sport
specialization.
The book sets out the scientific underpinnings of the ASM before going
on to offer practical guidance on the content of the programme, how to
adapt and vary the programme, and how to apply the approach to different
age groups and sports. The ASM's application in the youth development
programme at AFC Ajax is explored in depth, before a future of talent
development with an emphasis on athletic, rather than sport-specific,
expertise is imagined.
The Athletic Skills Model introduces an important and timely challenge
to conventional wisdom in talent development and is a fascinating read
for any upper-level student or researcher interested in youth
development, skill acquisition, motor learning or sports coaching, and
any coaches wanting to refresh their approach to talent development.