Authors: Weissensteiner, Juanita¹; Abernethy, Bruce²; Farrow, Damian³

Source: Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, Volume 21, Number 3, July 2009 , pp. 276-292(17)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

Abstract:

Data from semi-structured interviews with 14 male expert cricket batsmen, coaches, and administrators were used to generate a conceptual model of expertise in this sport. In the model, a favorable socio-developmental environment (support, vast investment in creative and challenging play, sibling rivalry) provides the essential foundation for the development of positive psychological attributes (mental toughness, self-belief and confidence, ability to cope with adversity, adoption of individualized routines/rituals), technical skill mastery (optimal balance, speed of downswing, versatility of shot execution) and superior visual-perceptual skill. Intrinsic motivators (fun, enjoyment, challenge and achievement, desire to be the best, “love of the game”, camaraderie) are regarded as essential to continuation and progression along developmental pathways. Facets of contemporary society and its constraints on free play emerged as one of the major limitations to the future development of expertise. The model has immediate implications for coaching practice, developmental policy, and future research approaches to identifying and nurturing sports talent.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10413200903018675

Affiliations: 1: Australian Sports Commission, 2: Institute of Human Performance, The University of Hong Kong & School of Human Movement Studies, The University of Queensland, 3: Sports Science and Sports Medicine, Australian Institute of Sport,

Publication date: 2009-07-01

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