Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to examine modes of sports talent identification,
challenges faced in sports talent identification and factors that predict sports
talent identification and development in Senior High Schools in Upper East
Region of Ghana. A census sampling technique was used to include all 203
participants (180 male and 23 female sports coaches) in Senior High Schools
in the Upper East Region. In gathering data for the investigation,
questionnaires were used and the data were analysed using frequencies,
percentages and multiple regression. Findings from the study indicated that the
common mode of identifying talented student-athletes was through
observation by coaches (90.6%). Also, limited financial resource (82.3%),
judging coaches’ competence by their teams’ performance in competitions
(73.9%) and early talent identification (69%) were identified as major
challenges in sports talent identification. Again, technical skills (β= .153,
t=2.254, p|<.05) and tactical skills (β= -.276, t=-3.851, p<.05) were found to
be significant in predicting sports talent identification while adequate sports
equipment and facilities (β= .300, t= 4.425, p < .05), expert coaching (β= .271,
t=4.224, p< .05), regular training (β= .260, t=3.848, p<.05), and family
support (β= .151, t=2.318, p< .05) were significant in predicting sport talent
development. Therefore, it was recommended that coaches should include
scientific methods in identifying sports talents. Also, Senior High Schools
should place emphasis on sports talent identification and development rather
than on winning sports competitions. Lastly, talented student-athletes should
be provided with adequate sports facilities, family support, regular training
and expert coaching to help them develop their talents.
