Long-term athlete development in schools: a systematic review and narrative synthesis

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Educational Psychology
• Talent Development

Background:

• Sport schools are increasingly vital for developing elite athletes.
• However, their impact on long-term athlete development (LTAD) remains unclear.
• Talent programs within schools aim to identify and nurture athletic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the effects of school-based talent development on LTAD.
• To synthesize existing evidence on the physiological, physical, psychological, and social outcomes.
• To assess impacts on sporting and academic achievements.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across PubMed, Web of Science, and SportDiscus.
• PRISMA guidelines and PICO strategy were employed for study selection.
• Narrative synthesis of findings from 21 eligible quantitative studies.

Main Results:

• Positive impacts on physiological and physical development were observed.
• Increased psychological stress, particularly in female athletes, was noted.
• Mixed results on academic success and no consistent link to long-term sporting success were found.

Conclusions:

• School-based talent programs benefit physical performance and social networks but challenge psychological well-being.
• Long-term academic and sporting success require further investigation and support.
• Improved integration of mental health support within LTAD frameworks is recommended.