The Development squad is for athletes aged 17-19 years old (juniors) as of 31st December of the relevant race season. The purpose is to support athletes to explore their potential in triathlon through positive experiences and clearly defined goals and to provide guidance through key transitional periods from junior to under 23/senior. Athletes will only be selected into this squad after a minimum of six months on the Transition Squad.
Do I need triathlon experience to get involved?
Yes. However, this does not need to be extensive. To be selected for the Development squad, an athlete is required to have been part of the Transition squad for at least 6 months prior. This is to ensure that the Development squad is the right environment for you and provide you with an opportunity to develop the skills & behaviours required to be selected.
How do I get involved?
Apply to be selected for the Development squad within the selection windows as they are announced (more information on the Application tab). This will be published on the website and Welsh Triathlon’s social media channels. Being an active member of a triathlon club is highly recommended if you are new to triathlon as they help you to develop the key triathlon skills.
Do I have to be selected?
Yes. The selection criteria can be found HERE. We use a profiling tool to select athletes based off their physical abilities across swim, bike and run performances/benchmarks. It is weighted more towards swim and run ability as at this age and stage development this is considered of higher priority. There is also an element of cycling proficiency that is taken into consideration. We also consider an athletes’ technical/movement quality and skills along with psychology. There are two selection windows per year, one in September and one in February.
At this stage, our selection process is designed to be more holistic as we should have a better understanding of the athlete through their engagement in the transition squad.
What is expected of each Squad athlete?
- Demonstrating the key performance behaviours
- Have a clear development plan and be accountable to working towards this.
- Taking ownership of your training and working with coaches/mentors
- Engagement at sessions and camps
- Commitment to Welsh Triathlon camps. (We actively encourage athletes to continue to pursue their individual sport ambitions as we support late sport specialisation).
- Commit to racing the British Youth and Junior Super Series.
- Have a positive attitude towards challenge and personal development.
For more information about applying to the Development squad, including the profiling tables and scoring, please click HERE.
