Models for youth sports talent identification and development: An integrative review of research

This study aims to present an integrative review of research on the models used for identification and development of sports talent. It has two purposes: (1) to systematically analyze the models followed to identify and develop sports talent in the period of 2012–2021 and (2) to determine the model that is mostly followed in sports talent identification and development in the period of 2012–2021. The study employed an integrative review of research method for identification, synthesis, and assessment of information and findings from peer-reviewed articles from the online academic resources. The findings revealed that there are different models used and some are mostly followed, including Newell’s model, the long-term athlete development model, the mental model, Gagne’s model, the credible role model, the standard model, the normative model, ecological dynamics, and multivariate models. Most of the models are well used; however, the choice of which model is to be used depends on a number of factors such as age of the target group, culture of the target population, and nature of sport involved. The findings imply that, for the purpose of getting positive results, each model should be applied appropriately based on the needs and nature of sports.