FAQs
Q - When should my child participate in talent identification and development?
A - The optimal assessment period for children is during the early years of secondary school at approximately 13 to 16 years of age. While it is possible to conduct talent identification and development programs at a later age for some sports (e.g. rowing), most sports associated with the NTID program are well catered for during this assessment period. While some sports such as swimming and gymnastics take it upon themselves to screen at an earlier age, the NTID program does not screen children on a mass scale at primary school level.
Q - How do I get my son/daughter tested?
A – Specific projects for individual sports in targeted communities are one way of participating in a talent identification assessment. These run for relatively short periods on a relatively ad-hoc basis, and generally rely on publicly disseminated information (e.g. newspapers, radio etc. To be sure you don’t miss out, check the individual sport pages on this website for up coming projects. Alternatively log onto eTID, our interactive online self identification tool and register your details with the NTID program (coming soon!!).
Q - How do I get tested, noticed, or better coaching in my sport?
A - If you are interested in advancing in your chosen sport, directly contact your National Sporting Organisation for the best sports specific advice.
Q - If I do well at the tests, will I be a good athlete?
A – No, not necessarily. The development phase is equally important as the testing phase. Success is very much dependant upon a number of factors that aren’t even tested (e.g. attitude, perseverance, coaching, skill adaptation, decision making, competition experiences, etc). The identification tests are only an indication of your potential to succeed, they do not promise success.
Q - If I don’t get invited for further testing, does this mean that I can never be an elite athlete?
A - No. Being invited for a second phase of testing may be dependant upon a number of factors. Often NTID coordinators are looking for very special and unique characteristics, that only a small minority may possess.
During the adolescent years, there is great variability in growth and maturation, and so the timing of testing may impact upon your test results. While talent identification and development is successful through achievements, many individuals who become elite athletes do so outside of the NTID program.
Q - I am 18 years old, and have just finished my sporting career. Has Talent Identification and Development passed me by?
A - No. In fact there are a number of NTID programs that may be particularly suitable to you. Check out the individual sport pages on this website for any current projects, or visit eTID.
Q - I have an assignment on talent identification, can you help?
A - This website has a wealth of information on this topic. If you require more information or research, then contact the National Sport Information Centre as they have a range of services aimed at students and researchers.
Q - Can my child come to the AIS?
A - The Australian Institute of Sport offers scholarships to a wide range of sports and age-groups. More information is available through the AIS scholarships section.
