This stage relates to the activities that people undertake after they have withdrawn from competitive sport.  Various options are open, such as staying with their sport and fulfilling roles in coaching, mentoring, administration, officiating, participating in other sport for recreational purposes, or competing at masters level.

 

This is a critical stage for lifelong participation in sport, and with all its benefits, should be promoted by coaches and others.

 

It was reported that many years ago in the former East Germany, it was common practice for elite performers to undertake a training down programme, involving them participating in a variety of activities and encouraging them to keep active, as well as providing advice and support on their future development.

 

Given the range and depth of expertise that former athletes have, it could be considered as being mutually beneficial for both retiring performers and sport, that a variety of options should be considered when this stage arrives.  However, at present this is more of a matter for administrators of sport rather than practising coaches.

 

Do you have a comment on this stage of LTAD?  If so, email sbentall@sportscoachuk.org