Applying the 5Cs Framework to Elite Youth Tennis: Impact Factors in a Talent Development Environment

Area of Science:

• Sport Psychology
• Youth Development
• Talent Identification and Development

Background:

• Increasing demands in youth sport necessitate psychosocial support for athletes.
• The 5Cs framework is a recognized psychoeducational approach in sport psychology.
• Application of the 5Cs framework in youth tennis Talent Development Environments (TDEs) requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To extend and investigate the application of the 5Cs framework within a youth tennis TDE.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a multimodal 5Cs intervention programme.

Main Methods:

• Collective case study design involving 12 participants (5 athletes, parents, 2 coaches).
• A 30-week multimodal 5Cs intervention programme delivered by an embedded sport psychology practitioner (SPP).
• Post-intervention semi-structured interviews and reflexive thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• The 5Cs programme positively influenced psychosocial development in young tennis athletes.
• Perceived effectiveness was linked to tennis specificity, individual needs, stakeholder collaboration, and accessible strategies.
• Evidence of athlete improvements was observed.

Conclusions:

• The 5Cs framework can be effectively applied in youth tennis TDEs.
• Stakeholder collaboration and tailored interventions are crucial for athlete development, performance, and well-being.
• Researchers and organizations should consider these factors to support young athletes and families.