Newyddion

18/10/2024 00:00, I Mewn Blog /

The Welsh Athletics National Development Programme (NDP) is the first tier of the Performance Pathway. Aligned with the organisation’s broader performance vision, the NDP plays a crucial role in guiding athletes toward elite performance at national and international levels.

Over the past 12 months, the programme has been focused on enhancing athletes' physical, technical, tactical, and psychological skills. Through structured support on various topics throughout the year, the NDP also emphasises long-term athlete development (LTAD) principles, preparing participants for future competitions, including the Commonwealth Games.

Since its inception in December 2023, the programme has undergone several key changes. Athletes can now join the NDP from the age of 14, with no upper age limit to accommodate late-maturing athletes. The number of contact days has significantly increased, expanding from three to eleven days annually. These sessions consist of five all-event group sessions and six event-specific training days. This expansion allows for greater reinforcement of key performance behaviours and physical development. The programme has ensured athletes/coaches have access to an Athlete Management System, so that data collected can inform their planning and decision making moving forward. NDP athletes had the additional option this year of attending the performance programme training camp at their own cost, therefore joining their fellow athletes on the Transition and Performance Programmes.

Athlete selection criteria has been updated, as to align more closely with the performance vision. The current cohort has 58 athletes selected, based on performance outcomes, athlete profiles and demonstrated performance behaviours.

Physical development has been a core focus throughout the year, with Welsh Athletics identifying physical competency as an area needing improvement. The introduction of two strength and conditioning (S&C) staff members has supported this goal. With Joe Parker leading Endurance/Throwing events, while Rudy Howard oversees the Sprint/Jump events. Athletes in the NDP are also provided with a weekly S&C window and access to Teambuilder app.

The programme has also placed an emphasis on technical skill development. Community-based coaches have been brought in to lead technical sessions during the event-specific days. These specialised coaches have worked on refining skills such as running mechanics, jumping, and throwing techniques.

Alongside physical development, performance behaviours have been another key focus. Multiple sessions have been delivered by Welsh Athletics Sports Psychologist Louise Jones, emphasising psychological training, mental resilience, focus, and confidence under pressure. These sessions have been held in a variety of environments, including a performance training camp over the Easter period.

Coaches involved in the programme have benefited from professional development (CPD) opportunities, enhancing their knowledge in areas such as anti-doping, performance behaviours and S&C. The NDP has also served as a valuable networking opportunity for both athletes and coaches, allowing experienced coaches to share knowledge with less experienced colleagues.

Throughout the year, the NDP has implemented a multi-disciplinary approach, involving various members of the Welsh Athletics performance department.

Looking ahead to the next 12 months, the focus will continue on education, as to allow further progress to be made in supporting athletes, coaches, and parents alike. The programme will continue to offer its athletes the resources, education, and guidance necessary to achieve greater success in 2025 and put in place the building blocks for long-term success.