Archer Development Pathways

At the start of 2008 we decided to review the current coaching and archer development activities operating within the club and decided that whilst our policy of having coaches available to help all members for at least 8 hours (4 separate days) at every practice session that we needed to provide extra focus for our members currently demonstrating the highest potential. We already had an Elite Group of archers identified and they attended additional workshops etc but we have now decided to replace that group with two groups, one of which will provide an intermediate step to the more advanced group

This can be an emotive topic but as our policy and practice provides coaching support for all our members and we recognise that we do need to provide more focused and structured support for those that demonstrate potential and want even more support, then we need to offer a more defined programme.

Club Coaching Structure / Archer Development Pathways

Club Coaching Aims

· To support members developing to their full potential, ensure general coaching support is available to EVERYONE by making sure that coaches are available at every practice session.

· To offer a range of activities and workshops to all members in the club.

· To encourage and support members to complete a coaching qualification and to develop a supportive and learning culture within the club.

· To provide a clear picture of development pathways for both the archers and coaches.

In addition, members that meet the following criteria and wish to be involved will be provided with further structured support.

Development Squad

Eligibility Criteria;

· Individuals that have been shooting for a minimum of 12 months and at least 10 years of age.

· Have shown a willingness and ability to learn.

· Demonstrate potential and attend practice sessions regularly.

· Have successfully competed in club and local competitions.

Members of this group will work with a named coach, normally a Level 1 (under the guidance of the Head Coach), start a development Diary, have a clear development plan, be invited to Club specialist workshops/trainings etc and be considered for county events.

Advanced Squad

Eligibility Criteria;

· Meet the Development Squad criteria.

· Have demonstrated a level of success at County and Regional Level.

Members of this advanced squad will work with a named coach, normally the Club Head Coach (and a Level 1 coach shadow), maintain a development diary and have a clear development plan. They will also be automatically nominated for county squad events and training workshops.

Where appropriate will be nominated for external workshops and funding etc.

Names of members of both Squads;

As of 14^th February 2008 the following points summarise the current situation:

· The current Elite Squad is discontinued.

· Following a coaches meeting it has been proposed that coincidentally 8 members meet each of the 2 groups eligibility criteria. (5 juniors and 3 seniors in each group).

· By the end of the first week in March all 16 individuals will have been invited to join the programme.

· Members who have not been contacted by that date and who feels that they would also like to be considered should register their interest with any of the coaches.