Emphasis is on linearity and thinness. Obviously the physical, motor and behavioral requisites vary among sports. Selection is based on the assumption that the requisites for a given sport can be identified at a young age and subsequently perfected through specific training. The process of selection is ongoing as the youngster adapts to the instructional and training programs, as well as the social and emotional demands of the special programs. The success or failure of a talent identification and selection program is dependent upon the balance between the child s ability and the demands of the sport and sports system.
Ability is dynamic, changing as the child grows, matures and develops.
Quite often, however, the sport and sports system are rather rigid, and do not readily adapt to individual differences in normal growth, maturation and development. Problems with Selection Programs Identifying and selecting the potentially talented young athlete is the first step in a relatively long term process, leading to the perfection of talent. The youngster must adapt to the physical, social and emotional demands of the coaches, training programs, and competitions. The process also involves several forms of social manipulation, e.g., long hours of practice, modified school schedules, preferential treatment, differential access to resources, separation of a child from family and peers, and extensive travel. Selection programs have problems related to decision making.