Rethinking Talent Development Philosophies - Dr Andy Borrie (Pt1) - Meaningful Sport Series

In this episode, we explore the world of talent development and inquire into philosophical assumptions underpinning the talent programmes. Much critique has been voiced on these systems for being harsh environments for the young athletes, and concerns have been raised on whether the elite sport system demanding always higher-faster-stronger is sustainable.

Can we find a way of reimagining the philosophies of talent development towards something more sustainable and meaningful? And if so, what could this look like in practice?

Today's guest Dr Andy Borrie is a senior lecturer in coaching and professional practice at University of Derby. He has also worked in elite sport, coaching and education for 30 years. Andy’s PhD dissertation at the University of Gloucestershire used an autoethnographic approach to explore talent development philosophies in the UK. This work will provide a starting point for our conversation today.   

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Liked this episode? You will likely find the episodes with Dr Niels Feddersen on organisational cultures in elite sport and with Dr Christian Thue Bjørndal on whether athlete development systems narrowing meaning(s) of sport interesting.