Abstract
The aim of this study is to investigate a multidisciplinary approach to talent identification and development in South African youth soccer. This study used a parallel mixed methods research design. A total of 253 participants (141 soccer coaches and 112 players) in South Africa took part in this study. In addition, a sub-sample of 17 soccer coaches and scouts participated in the semi-structured interviews. Overall, players ranked long-term development (M = 5.15, SD = 0.77), communication (M = 4.13, SD = 1.49) and alignment of expectation (M = 4.12, SD = 1.49) as the most important facets of talent development environment. For outfield players, technical (first touch, passing, dribbling and finishing), tactical (decision making and game understanding), physical (height, speed and endurance) and psycho-social (coachability, discipline and will to win) attributes were perceived as key by soccer coaches in the talent identification process. In addition, goalkeeper coaches also identified technical (handling), tactical (distribution, defensive organisation, build-up play and decision making), physical (height, speed and upper body strength) and psycho- social (bravery, communication, coachability and composure) attributes as critical when identifying talented youth goalkeepers. The study’s findings demonstrated the multifaceted nature of young soccer talent, which comprises psychological, technical, physical, tactical and social qualities that must be considered in the process of making talent identification decisions.