Composite vignette of the children-to-youth sport transition process in Norwegian athletes

The aim of this study was to explore the children-to-youth sport transition (CYT) process through the eyes of Norwegian cross-country skiers and handball players. We used a longitudinal design and interviewed 11 athletes at three time points (12, 13 and 14 years old). Using thematic analysis and a composite vignette we conceptualise the CYT as a three-phase process in which demands, barriers, resources and support needs evolve over time. In the preparation phase, the main demand for athletes was combining multiple sports with school. In the orientation phase, athletes faced a stronger result-focus, increased workloads in school and sports, injuries, selection processes, and navigating new peer relationships at a new school. In the acclimation phase, the demands related to workload, result-focus, and coping with injuries intensified. Across the phases, athletes develop personal resources to cope with these demands, such as planning skills, independence, emotional regulation, social skills, self-care, and a task-oriented approach. The findings underscore the need for support tailored to the transition phases, the supporting role, and individual development, and for this support to be coordinated among parents and coaches to ensure athletes receive the right support at the right time.