Perceptions of Colombian Olympic coaches on talent identification and development in sport: a qualitative study

Studies examining talent identification and development have primarily focused on athletic samples. However, there is limited literature addressing the determinants of talent from coaching perspectives. The aim of this study was to characterize the perspectives of coaches regarding talent identification and development among Colombian elite coaches.

The research adopted a qualitative, interpretative approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews. The guide was validated through expert review and interviews conducted with 10 coaches who have Olympic experience. Thematic analysis was conducted for data analysis using NVivo software (version 14) and a deductive-inductive content analysis approach based on the ecological dynamics theoretical framework.

The results were organized into three main categories of constraints: (1) related to the athlete; (2) related to the task; and (3) related to environment. Participants highlighted the importance of physical, technical, tactical, and, above all, psychological skills in talent identification. Coaches also emphasized that talent should not be viewed as static but as a dynamic construct influenced by biological maturation and environmental factors. Deliberate practice and play were considered complementary in sport development, with early diversification of sporting experiences being highly valued by Olympic coaches. Family involvement, institutional support, and socioeconomic stability emerged as critical elements to ensure the continuity and sustainability of the process.

The geographic and ethnic diversity of Colombia was recognized as a factor that can facilitate talent identification and development although structural challenges such as infrastructure shortages and the lack of coordinated national policies continue to limit the development of elite athletes. The talent development model in Colombia should consider the interrelationships between different constraints to effectively identify and develop athletes for elite-level competition.