The LTAD Network Podcast

 ​Sascha Hartel is the Head of Performance at TSG Hoffenheim He is responsible for Performance Diagnostics in the Professional Teams, Youth Teams (Male & Female), also Adler Mannheim (Ice-hockey) and Rhein-Neckar-Löwen (Handball). He also leads the team of S&C coaches as well as sharing responsibility for dat strategy and innovation. He is a consultant within the TSG ResearchLab a non-profit-organisation "bringing Science and Research from Sports to Society”. Ludwig Ruf is a strength and conditioning coach at TSG Hoffenheim academy and research assistant at the TSG ResearchLab. He completed a PhD on monitoring load and fatigue in elite youth soccer at Saarland University, Germany. Prior to this he completed an MSc in Strength and Conditioning at Cardiff Metropolitan University and did an annual internship with Adelaide United, Australia. The main aim of his PhD was to enhance our understanding of applied practice by investigating the usefulness of measurement instruments to assess acute responses to load in elite youth soccer players throughout adolescence. Special consideration is given to growth and biological maturation within the framework of monitoring the youth athlete. In this podcast the pair discuss: What caused Hoffenheim to become interested in monitoring maturation in their players. The methods they were previously using. How they have integrated the BAUSport device into the organisation. The efficacy an influence of the device within Hoffenheim. The effect of the new information on decision making processes. Future research projects taking place within the club .  You can follow Ludwig's work via his Instagram page: @rufludwig or via his Researchgate profile here: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ludwig-Ruf Follow Sascha's work vis his research gate profile here: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Sascha-Haertel To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com  or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork  . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk  , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Kevin Shattock is currently working towards his professional doctorate (DProf) at Leeds Beckett University, exploring a biopsychosocial approach to athlete development.  He is the Head of Athletic Development at The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) and possesses over twenty five years' experience of sports coaching, sports science support, strength & conditioning, and athlete performance. In this episode Kevin discusses: His wide and varied experiences of coaching and teaching. The Grammar School Leeds program and how it's grown since his time there. What athletes will remember after their time with us. Why we should consider our "fingerprints" as coaches. How the Sagrada Familia provides an excellent example of long term thinking. You can keep up to date with Kevin via his Twitter: @TheFiveWsPod  and his ResearchGate profile: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Kevin-Shattock . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com  or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork  . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk  , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Sam Boylett-Long has been an accredited S&C coach with the UKSCA since 2012. Since completing his MSc in Human Performance in 2015, Sam has worked with a number of Women's Football internationals during his 4 year spell with Reading Women.In January 2020 Sam began working with the GB Rowing team providing S&C and sport science support, leading various projects including warm up strategies - maximising physical readiness & developing objective diagnostics for Fmax assessment. In this episode Sam discusses: His winding road into full-time S&C Coaching. His time at Reading FC Women's team at the start of the Super League. A baptism of fire in Namibia with British Rowing during Covid. The various components that make up elite rowing performance. You can keep up to date with Sam via his Twitter: Sam Boylett_Long and his Instagram: @Sam_boylettlong . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com  or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork  . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk  , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Glenn is a specialist in research and innovation in Sport related health, and winner of the International Federation of Sports Physiotherapy HvU Award for outstanding achievement in this field. He is a chartered physiotherapist and the former Head of Science and Medicine and Performance Innovation in athlete health at UK Sport, and the senior consultant in Performance Innovation at the English Institute of Sport, where he managed the health research and innovation program related to ~ 1400 athletes across 40 core Olympic and Paralympic sports. Glenn also facilitated the 'top secret' development and delivery of new and novel ideas, approaches and equipment related to athlete health, which have had a performance impact over the last 5 summer and winter Olympic and Paralympic games. Glenn has a Master of Science degree with distinction in Sport Medicine and a Master of Arts degree with distinction in Innovation and behaviour change and is driven by translating research and evidence into real world practice and evidencing that benefit. In this episode, Glenn discusses: His previous roles as a Physiotherapist and Lecturer. The hunger to get back into performance sport. His time at UK Sport and the English Institute of Sport for multiple olympic cycles. How you make the best in the world even better. How he ended up at Podium Analytics. Why the SportSmart program is such an important initiative. How schools and sports organisations can get involved. You can find out more about the SportSmart program via the Instagram account: @mysportsmart or via the website: www.podiumanalytics.org To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com  or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork  . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk  , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Ray Zingler is a Strength Coach, Entrepreneur, Consultant, and Author. He is the Owner of Zingler Strength & Conditioning, LLC., an Industry Leader in Performance Training for athletes, busy professionals, and military personnel.  Ray is recognized as a Certified Physical Preparation Specialist and has been serving the Metro Atlanta, Georgia area since 2009. His blue collar, consistency and hard work approach to research based training has allowed him to serve thousands of clients.  In addition to operating his training facility, Ray consults current and perspective gym owners on business structure and implementation. Beyond mentoring strength professionals, Ray consults high school sport and strength coaches, aiding in the development of program structure and design.  Ray also does contract work within local high schools and club sport organizations, implementing S&C programs within the team settings of a variety of sports. In this episode Ray discusses: Growing up in a family of coaches. Taking an unconventional route into S&C Coaching. Why for him impact is more important than income. The meaning of "Hammers Only". Why the value of S&C Coaching can go far beyond the physical. You can keep up to date with Ray's work via his Instagram: @zingler_strength and via the website: www.zinglerstrength.com To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com  or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork  . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk  , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Kate Shilland and Fran Taylor are Registered Sports and Public Health Nutritionists (AfN). Kate is a Performance Nutritionist with over 10 years' experience working with athletes, of all levels across various sports.  She has helped a number of athletes, including teens, achieve National & World Champion status in a variety of sports. She has been working at Crystal Palace Football Club Academy for 6 seasons and works with a number of tennis academies, sports clubs and schools. Fran has over 13 years' experience as a Public Health Nutritionist. She works with schools, youth and community organisations promoting fad free, no nonsense nutrition advice. She also works with young athletes & sports clubs including elite junior taekwondo, rugby, netball, gymnastics and athletics. Together under the banner of "Performance Canteen", they work with elite young athletes, parents and coaches in academies, sports clubs and schools. They also have teenage athletes of our own and see first hand the lack of good nutrition advice out there, and the challenges that come with this. In this episode they discuss: The high energy needs of youth athletes compared to there siblings or peers. The dangers of taking nutrition advice from Tik Tok or Instagram. The simple nudges a parent or coach can make to improve a youth athletes nutrition. Supporting youth athletes on plant based diets. You can follow their work via the Performance Canteen Instagram account: @performance_canteen and via their website www.performancecanteen.co.uk . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com  or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork  . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk  , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Dr Sinead Holden is an Assistant Professor in Sport and Exercise Science in UCD School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science. Her research interests are in optimizing musculoskeletal health and development during adolescent growth, with a view to understanding and preventing overuse and loading - related injuries and their consequences on health and performance in youth.  Her track record includes over 60 peer reviewed publications and >10 invited presentations. In this episode she discusses: The differences between Osgood-Schlatters and Patellofemoral pain. A simple rule of thumb for helping reduce the likelihood of Osgood-Schlatters. Why being physically prepared for the chosen sport is critical. What type of sports Osgood-Schlatters presents in. The risk factors for developing Osgood-Schlatters and why Severs may be an early warning sign. Why removing kids from sport is a bad idea and how treatment should focus on continued participation in sport. The Long term consequences of Osgood-Schlatters on physical performance and participation. The excellent rehab guide that Aalborg University group put together on Osgood-Schlatters. You can keep up to date with Sinead's work via her ResearchGate profile here: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Sinead-Holden and via Twitter here: @Sinead_Holden . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com  or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork  . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk  , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Dr Philip Graham-Smith has a long and established career as a biomechanist working in academia, professional sport and industry. He is currently Head of Biomechanics & Innovation at Aspire Academy in Qatar and was formerly Head of Department and Associate Head of School for Business and Engagement at the University of Salford. Phil is a Fellow and accredited member of BASES, a Chartered Scientist, an ISPAS Level 5 Accredited Performance Analyst, and a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (NSCA). He provided biomechanical support to UK Athletics for 21 years prior to leaving for Qatar in 2013. In the 4 years leading to the London Olympics Phil was consultant Head of Biomechanics at the English Institute of Sport. Phil was a consultant to the footwear company FitFlops from 2006 to 2013 where he helped translate biomechanical data into product design and marketing material. He is also the co-founder of ForceDecks, a technology which has been adopted by over 600 high performances sport institutes and professional sports teams worldwide. In this episode Phil discusses: How his exploration of maths and physics lead to a career in biomechanics. The founding of  ForceDecks. How a simple question from Alex Natera lead to investigating Single Leg training. Why Single Leg training is underestimated in terms of force and load. How these results can inform coaches in their progressions and exercise selections. You can follow Phil's work via his LinkedIn page, or via his Twitter @PhilipGraham-Sm2 or his Instagram: @philipgrahamsmith . Check out the work he and Alex Natera did here: https://www.instagram.com/tv/CdDbEXulqNU/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Toby Edwards is currently a Strength & power scientist for Australian Track Sprint & BMX Race athletes as well as a Strength and conditioning coach and researcher interested in all things strength, speed, and power development. He had key involvements in podium performances at the 2022 World Championships and Commonwealth Games. He has experience providing strength and conditioning support to National, International, and Olympic athletes in Australia and the United States across several sports including Australian football, college basketball, college football, and track cycling. In this episode Toby discusses: His sporting background as an athlete/S&C coach in Australian rules Football. His time in the US with Purdue University. Completing his PhD studies investigating speed and it's influence in Junior AFL athlete success. His role at Cycling Australia and the upcoming World Championships and Olympic Games. You can follow Toby's work via his Twitter: @tobyedwards_phd and Instagram: @tobyedwards_phd . Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the LTAD Workshop on February 25th & 26th, where Rob Anderson and Jared Deacon will be covering all things adolescent training including the development of strength, power, speed and agility. Get your tickets now here:https://bookwhen.com/ltadnetwork/e/ev-sbt0-20230225000000 . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Simon Brearley is the Head of Athlete Development & Rehabilitation at Cranleigh School and a consultant strength & conditioning coach with England Golf, and the European Tour Health & Performance Institute (official providers of science and medicine services on the DP World Tour). In this episode Simon discusses: The evolution of the program at Cranleigh School. How his role has had a more rehabilitation focussed element. The most common injuries he sees on a regular basis in school based athletes. The relationship many of these injuries have to training load and growth. Why he thinks youth S&C coaches should have a better understanding of common injuries. You can follow Simon's work via his Twitter: @resolveperf . Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the LTAD Workshop on February 25th & 26th, where Rob Anderson and Jared Deacon will be covering all things adolescent training including the development of strength, power, speed and agility. Get your tickets now here:https://bookwhen.com/ltadnetwork/e/ev-sbt0-20230225000000 To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Tom Green is the Head of Athletic Development at St Peters RC High School and holds an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in Strength and Conditioning (S&C) as well as being a qualified teacher. Outside of his role at the school, Tom works with the UKSCA to support the delivery of S&C within schools and for Catapult as the Youth Research Reviewer for Science for Sport. Tom has an extensive background in delivering quality S&C with over ten years of practice at elite, University and school levels. In this episode Tom discusses: His role at St Peters RC High School. Some of the limitations in his role at the School. How he influenced the delivery of PE/Sport at the School. Why he decided to undertake teacher training. How teacher training opened his eyes to some weaknesses in his coaching. What he believes S&C Coaches can learn from teachers. You can follow Tom's work via his Twitter account: @ThomasGreen1 . Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the LTAD Workshop on February 25th & 26th, where Rob Anderson and Jared Deacon will be covering all things adolescent training including the development of strength, power, speed and agility. Get your tickets now here:https://bookwhen.com/ltadnetwork/e/ev-sbt0-20230225000000 To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

In this episode we provide a preview of our upcoming LTAD Network workshop with Rob Anderson & Jared Deacon on the 25th & 26th February at the Engage Sports Centre, Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland. We cover: Who the workshop is aimed at and how it will benefit their coaching of young athletes. Who will be leading the workshop, their experience and qualifications What theoretical and practical content will be covered in Day 1 & 2. The fantastic facilities we'll be using during the workshop. Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the LTAD Workshop on February 25th & 26th, where Rob Anderson and Jared Deacon will be covering all things adolescent training including the development of strength, power, speed and agility. To secure your spot on the Scotland workshop, head to https://education.ltadnetwork.com/httpseducationltadnetworkcomworkshop-scotland-2023 to book your place now! To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Tom Clough has spent the past 20 years negotiating the trials and tribulations of working in professional Rugby League & Rugby Union. Learning from mistakes he made as a coach, as well as the adversity of clubs going through administrations and relegations through to the highs of promotion. Tom now works as the Head of Athletic Performance at Ulster Rugby, where he has spent the past 4 seasons. Tom has learnt that whilst you can make quick progress going it alone as a practitioner, you can also make big mistakes. Now he fully invests in trying to facilitate a co-created training environment where players and staff can consistently develop and perform. In this episode Tom discusses: His time at Bradford Bulls, Hull KR and a stint at Mike Boyle's facility. Facing tough times in Rugby League with relegation and administration. How these challenges also brought opportunities. The importance of coaching systems and processes. Guiding people rather than issuing directives. Meeting people where they are at and recruiting for knowledge/skills gaps The importance of recruiting slow and firing fast. The importance of collective CPD and productive discussions in a coaching team. You can connect with Tom via his Twitter @TCloughie or his LinkedIn page. Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the LTAD Network Workshop on February 25th & 26th, where Rob Anderson and Jared Deacon will be covering the LTAD Network pathway and all things adolescent training including the development of strength, power, speed and agility. Get your tickets now here! To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Kay Kay Keung has a Kinesiology background including coaching, fitness testing, clinical skills and research in the United States (North Carolina) and Hong Kong. She is experienced in coaching a wide range of clients from hospital outpatients to competitive athletes and is passionate about working with individuals and teams to become the fittest, strongest, fastest and healthiest version of themselves. Her training specialties include calisthenics, Olympic weightlifting, running, athletic performance and prehabilitation/rehabilitation. Her athletic career in both the United States and Hong Kong involved competing in long distance running and lacrosse. Highlights include national championships in both sports and representing Hong Kong on the national lacrosse team. In this episode Kay Kay discusses a unique case study including: A military boot camp combined with training for powerlifting. How she structured pre planned training around the surprises and randomness of a military boot camp. Training for the max strength demands of powerlifting combined with the endurance requirements at the end of the bootcamp. You can follow Kay Kay's work via her Instagram: @strengthtosize . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

For over 16 years,  Richard Husseiny worked as a performance coach in high performance sport, with some of the best organisations and athletes in the world - from Great Britain and China. This included supporting teams in preparation for two Summer Olympic Games – London 2012 and Rio 2016 – and the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. In 2015 he gave end of life care to his mother. This experience changed his life and inspired him to pursue a new career. He now helps performance support staff who are burnt out from improving their athletes at the expense of themselves & constantly having to take on and achieve more to prove their worth because they are worried about losing their job. He helps them move to a place of calm, clarity and freedom to live authentically to their values of balancing their personal needs with the demands of their career, put themselves first and giving their time and energy to the people they love. In this episode Richard discusses: How he used his roles in sport to support his own self esteem and ego. How the experience caring for his mother provided a space for reflection and change. Why our values are so important for guiding our career choices. The 4 male archetypes and his adaptations to fit the sporting world. His initiative to help those working behind the scenes in sport. You can find out more about Richard's work by visiting his Instagram: @menbehindsport  or his Twitter: @richardhusseiny and the website: www.theconsciouscollective.com .

Jessica Spendlove is one of Australia's most respected and experienced Sports Dietitians. She has accumulated more than 30 seasons working with various professional team sports, world record holders, Olympic athletes and many corporate organisations, schools and active adolescent athletes. Over the last decade, Jess has worked with many professional sports teams in Australia including the GWS Giants, Cronulla Sharks, Giants Netball, Sydney Kings, Western Sydney Wanderers, GWS Giants AFLW and NSW Waratahs. She has also consulted with Olympic athletes, Australian Defence Force School of Operations (special forces), high-profile personalities, large corporations, and respected brands. In this episode Jess discusses: Her own history as an under-fuelling athlete. Some of the basic habits even high profile athletes lacked. The 'elements' we should consider in youth nutrition. What she considers to be the top 3 habits youth athletes need to form. How to get her free fuelling guide and join her "Eat like the Elite" program. You can see some of the amazing infographics Jess shares via her Instagram here: @jess_spendlove_dietician and download the free fuelling guide at her website: www.jessicaspendlove.com . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Joe Eisenmann hosts this roundtable discussion with Rich Clarke and Lee Taft on Agility. They discuss: What is agility? How to train perceptual and decision making skills. Training change of direction and agility with closed and open drills. How and when to implement and program using various methods. Testing and evaluations agility. To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Julie has been a UKSCA accredited coach since 2009 and has led successful programmes within schools and universities for over 10 years. Julie frequently consults on the initiation of many schools S+C programmes, and advises on content, infrastructure and viability. Julie is a member of the UKSCA board of directors and is a lecturer at Uni of Chichester. In this episode, Julie discusses: The humble beginnings of the Queenswood with no equipment and basic facilities. How Julie recognised opportunities to add value to the school community. Why it's important to continually demonstrate value to justify investment and expenditure. How the program grew to justify an investment in a 1 million pound facility. Why Universities don't prepare coaches for working with youth athletes. Her new role as a Director on the UKSCA Board as well as influencing the University sector. You can follow Julie's work via her Instagram: @juliegooderick and her Twitter: @juliegooderick . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Crofton Alexander has been an Accredited S&C coach with UKSCA since 2008 and L2 BWLA coach since 2006.  He started his career at London Wasps Rugby Cub in 2006 and was responsible for the physical development of a number of the squad's up and coming talent such as Christian Wade, Sam Jones, Eliot Daley and Joe launchbury as well as leading the recovery protocols of the whole squad. Since then he has worked in tennis, cricket, motorsport and superbikes before turning his hand to academia. He also sat on the board as a director for the UKSCA between 2013 and 2019.  He is also a workshop tutor and CPD panel member ensuring that accredited members maintain their ASCC status. He obtained a BSc (Hons) in Sports Science at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge and an MSc in Strength and Conditioning from St Mary's University in Twickenham. In this episode Crofton discusses: What it's like being an early career coach. How to approach continue profession development and reflection. How and why line managers should be protecting young coaches from burnout and over commitment. The key skills and conversations young coaches should be developing in their organisations. You can follow Crofton's work via his Twitter account: @croftonsport and Instagram: @croftonalexander . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Angela Jackson is a Chartered Physiotherapist who has spent the last 35 years seeking to understand why some young athletes get injured, yet others don't. Her determination to educate young athletes on reducing their injury risk, has fuelled a career that has taken her from Canada, to working with national teams, clubs and schools across many sports becoming an expert in understanding all aspects of youth athlete development. She is the physio to the Cheshire Cricket Board and has a particular interest in low back stress fractures. She is a passionate educator through her online and in person courses and lectures to health and exercise professionals both in the UK and internationally. In this episode she discusses: Why it's wrong to apply adult diagnoses to children. The increase of stress fractures seen after Covid Lockdowns. Why any child with Lower Back Pain on the opposite side to their throwing arm should be treated as a stress fracture. Her simple test for lower body stress fractures. The important of managing Training Volume, Nutrition and Sleep in preventing stress fractures. Her mobile phone analogy for kids to explain how stress fractures occur . You can keep up to date with Angela via her Twitter: @angiejphysio and via Instagram @angiejphysio as well as her website www.angelajacksonphysio.com . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

In this episode Tulshi Varsani is joined by James Baker as they discuss the Youth Physical Development Model. To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Rob Anderson created Athletic Evolution to provide best practice in the athletic development and coaching of young athletes. He is dedicated to improving the quality of athletic development training delivered to young athletes. Rob previously lead the Youth Athletic Development for the Scottish Rugby Academy in both the Caledonia and the Borders & East Lothian Regions, as well as the U16, U17 and U18 National Squads. Rob is the Founder of The Athlete Academy which helps youth athletes improve Movement, Nutrition and Mindset to dominate in Sport & Life. In this episode Rob discusses: An overview of The Athlete Academy. The Habit Curriculum The Athlete Academy uses. How they integrate the curriculum into day to day coaching at the academy. How The Athlete Academy rewards the behaviour they want to see. To learn more about The Athlete Academy visit: @athleticevoacademy To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Ali Jawad is a 4x Paralympian, 2016 Paralympic silver medallist, 2014 World Champion, 2 time Commonwealth Games Bronze Medallist at 2014/18, PhD candidate and Co-founder of Accessercise. In this episode Ali discusses: Growing up as a double limb amputee. How "getting dragged to the gym" started his career in Paralympic powerlifting. His meteoric rise to international competition. The impact of Crohn's disease on his body, mind and athletic career. . How he and his support team learned to outsmart Crohn's disease. The pinnacle of his career at Rio 2016 Games. His PhD research in antidumping in Paralympic sports. Why he founded the Accessorcise app specifically targeting the disable population. You can learn more about Ali via his Instagram account: @alijawadpowerlifter and more about Accessercise via @accessercise of download the app here: https://join.accessercise.com . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Lee Taft, known to most simply as “The Speed Guy”, is highly respected as one of the top athletic movement specialists in the world. In the last 30 years he has devoted the majority of his time training multi-directional speed to all ages and abilities. He has spent much of this time teaching his multi-directional speed methods to top performance coaches and fitness professionals all over the world. Lee has also dedicated countless hours mentoring up and coming sports performance trainers, many who have gone into the profession and made a big impact themselves. In this episode Lee discusses: To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Noorin Gulam took part in her first weightlifting competition just six weeks after starting the sport - and she hasn't looked back since. Gulam began lifting in her GCSE PE lessons and soon developed a talent and love for the sport. She was crowned 2022 British Champion in the 49kg weight class and holds the British Records with a 73 Snatch, 89 Clean & Jerk and 161 Total in the 49kg class. This summer she represented England at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. The 26-year-old has faced numerous ups and downs in her career through injury but never fails to bounce back. Outside of her own sporting achievements, Gulam is a weightlifting coach and content creator. In this episode Noorin discusses: The start of her Commonwealth Games journey back in 2014. Why not being funded has been beneficial for her. Her battle with injuries over the last few years. The constant challenge of weighing in at 49kg. How her qualification came down to 1 final opportunity in front of her family and friends. The experience of a home games and the athlete village. You can keep up to date with Nooring via her Instagram: @noorinn . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Shannon Archer made her senior Commonwealth Games debut at Gold Coast in 2018 which saw her finish 10th in the Individual All-Around event. She also achieved 5th in the Vault final and competed in the Team Event helping the team secure a 5th place finish. At the 2022 Birmingham Games, Shannon claimed Scotland's first ever individual women's Commonwealth Games artistic gymnastics medal by claiming bronze. In this episode Shannon discusses: Her performance at the 2018 Games and her decision to retire. Coming out of retirement for the 2022 Games. The qualification process for team selection for the games. Relocating from Scotland to London to train with her coach. What it felt like to win Scotland's 1st ever medal in Artistic Gymnastics. Life after gymnastics. You can keep up today with Shannon via Instagram here: @shannonarcher29 . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Beach volleyball was the hardest sport that Jess Grimson ever tried and that struggle for mastery has driven her to a second Commonwealth Games. Initially bound for a college soccer scholarship in the USA, the Leeds star spiked for the first time aged 13 at the behest of her pioneering P.E teacher. The four-time British champion reached the quarter-finals at Gold Coast 2018 with Victoria Palmer and will competed on home sand with a new partner in Daisy Mumby. In this episode Jess discusses: Being introduced to Volleyball by her PE Teacher. The challenge of being involved in an emerging sport in the UK. The injuries and challenges she's faced over the course of her career. Having to self fund or attract sponsors where possible to fund travel and tournaments. Dealing with a hard injury in the lead up to the 2022 Games. Her experiences at the 2018 Games in the Gold Coast vs the 2022 Games in Birmingham. Being a pioneer in the sport to clear the way for future generations. What she will take away from the sport. Life beyond volleyball. You can keep up to date with jess via Instagram: @jgrim02 . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Jake Henry is a professional rugby player, recently representing Scotland in Rugby 7's at the HSBC World Series and the 2022 Commonweath Games in Birmingham. In this episode Jake discusses: The challenge of being a student athlete. The Highs and Lows in his career so far. How he dealt with being injured and going from "the bunker to the gym and back" during the covid restrictions. How a nasty achilles rupture resulted in an unforeseen opportunity in Rugby 7's. Making his debut in the HSBS World Series against South Africa. Being selected to represent Scotland at the Commonwealth Games. What he took away from his time at the Commonwealth Games. His ambitions for the upcoming rugby season and beyond. Contemplating life after rugby. You can learn more about Jake by following him on Instagram at: @jakehenryy_ . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Kelly Fillingham is a Performance Coach and Coach Developer. She is currently employed by Scottish Hockey as the West Regional Development Manager and the Head of Scottish Hockey Girls Emerging Talent Squad, as well as leading on the BRAVE Academy Program. She is also the Director of 360 Hockey. In this episode Kelly discusses: Her hockey career, playing in the UK and USA and being a "student of coaches". Embracing new challenges coaching in England's talent system, as well as Scottish Masters League. How Scottish Hockey entered a "Reset phase" and the opportunity to do things differently. How this lead to the Brave Academy and the idea of Emerging & Aspiring Squads. The player numbers, regional centres, education plan and future expansion. You can follow Kelly on Twitter via: @Twiddle81 and the Brave Academy via @ScottishHockey and the website www.scotttish-hockey.org.uk . Get your discounted early bird ticket to LTAD Network Conference here! The 2022 Conference runs from 9-10th July at Hartpury University with a selection of world class speakers! Don't miss out! Get more details and secure your place here! To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

This episode is a recording of the LTAD Chat on Training the Adolescent Female, hosted by Joe Eisenmann with guests Erica Suter and Elisabeth Oehler. Erica Suter is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and has a Masters in Exercise Science and Sport Performance Enhancement. As an athlete, she pcaptained the soccer team at Johns Hopkins University and was a 2x Academic All American, 2 x Scholar All American and National Player of the Year. She holds the record of being the 2nd highest goal scorer for John Hopkins University and was selected in the John Hopkins 25th Anniversary All star team. Elisabeth Oehler is a strength coach who worked for the German Weightlifting Federation from 2017-2020 as manager of the youth department and later Head of Talent Identification. She's a licensed weightlifting coach (high performance) by the German Olympic Sports Confederation and holds several qualifications in youth development and strength & conditioning. In 2021 she started her own business consulting and coaching in National Governing Bodies of different sports. She helps organizations implementing talent development programs and improving coaching education. In this episode, the pair discuss: Physical considerations in training the female athlete. Important psychological and social considerations in training teenage females. Creating buy in to the training process. Get your discounted early bird ticket to LTAD Network Conference here! The 2022 Conference runs from 9-10th July at Hartpury University with a selection of world class speakers! Don't miss out! Get more details and secure your place here! To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Professor Mark De Set Croix has published over 100 articles and presented at over 100 conferences across the globe. He works predominantly in football, identifying injury risk via screening and implementing prevention programmes. A key focus of his work is to help coaches develop their understanding of prevention strategies. After undertaking his teacher training degree he knew he had an interest both in children's sport and physical activity and a growing interest in science. He completed a PhD exploring how children's muscle strength changes with growth and maturation and is now using that knowledge to explore how to reduce injury risk in youth sport. This has provided him with opportunities to work with some of the world's leading football clubs. Mark has just led an Erasmus+ European-funded project with partners in Spain and the Czech Republic to explore the knowledge and understanding of grass root coaches in terms of youth injury prevention. He has also obtained funding from FIFA, UEFA and the English FA to explore injury risk in female youth football, and works with organisations such as the England and Wales Cricket Board, Athletic Club Bilbao Football Club and Bristol City Football Club. In this episode Mark discusses: The many factors that should be considered in an injury risk reduction program. The importance of Training Quality as well as Training Age. Why Coach Education programs need to be more accessible for grassroots coaches. Is asymmetry as detrimental as people suggest? What does neuromuscular control really mean? Are kids affected by fatigue the same way as adults? Is there any truth to the concept of "Windows of Trainability"? You can keep up to date with Mark's research via the University of Gloucestershire Repository, his Research Gate page here, as well as via his Twitter account: @destecroixmark . Get your discounted early bird ticket to LTAD Network Conference here! The 2022 Conference runs from 9-10th July at Hartpury University with a selection of world class speakers! Don't miss out! Get more details and secure your place here! To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

This episode is a recording of the LTAD Chat on Speed Development, hosted by Joe Eisenmann with guests Tony Holler and John Garrish. Tony Holler is the track coach at Plainfield North High School outside of Chicago, Illinois. Tony retired from teaching chemistry after 38 years in the classroom and has 40 years of coaching experience in American Football, Basketball and Track & Field. Tony is member of Illinois Track & Field Hall of Fame and Co-director of Track Football Consortium along with Chris Korfist. Tony created the revolutionary "Feed the cats" in 19999 and plans to publish his first book in 2022. John Garrish is the Director of Athletic Development & Performance at North Broward Prep School in Florida, and also serves as the Director of Athletic Performance for the Florida Rugby Union 7s. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Wagner College, where he participated in Track & Field, and a Masters in Kinesiology & Exercise Science from the University of North Texas where he was also an intern with the Strength & Conditioning Program. In this chat they cover: The phases of speed. Testing and evaluation of speed. Teaching and coaching the biomechanics of acceleration and maximal velocity sprinting. The role of strength training and plyometrics in speed development. Programming for speed development. Get your discounted early bird ticket to LTAD Network Conference here! The 2022 Conference runs from 9-10th July at Hartpury University with a selection of world class speakers! Don't miss out! Get more details and secure your place here! To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

In this episode, the LTAD Network Podcast takes a slightly different turn as I invite James Bakerto give a preview of the upcoming 2022 LTAD Network Conference, taking place on July 9-10th at Hartpury University. In this episode we cover: The benefits of Live events vs Online events. What audience the LTAD Network Conference is designed for. An overview of some of the Keynote Speakers, Topics and why they were selected. Why we aim for an equal balance of both Theory and Practical delivery. The daily schedule for the Conference. An opportunity to win a Free Ticket to the 2022 Conference. Get your discounted early bird ticket to LTAD Network Conference here! The 2022 Conference runs from 9-10th July at Hartpury University with a selection of world class speakers! Don't miss out! Get more details and secure your place here! To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Aimee Ellen O'Keeffe is a Performance Nutritionist at Manchester United Women's team and owner of Committed Nutrition Ltd, her own private nutrition coaching company. Aimee is passionate about the female athlete, particularly breaking down barriers to fuelling and changing attitudes towards carbohydrates. Aimee has carried out a lot of research since starting in her role at Manchester United, analysing areas such as MD-1 carbohydrate intake, injury nutrition, half time carbohydrate intake to name a few. In this episode Aimee discusses: How working with a young female footballer with a stress fracture lead to her doing a Masters in Nutrition. Relative Energy Deficit Syndrome or "REDS". How underfuelling nutritionally can result in compromised bone health and stress fractures. What a day in the life of a full-time nutritionist in a pro football club looks like. The difference between disorder eating and an eating disorder. How nutrition can affect the menstrual cycle and why this matters. How social media can influence young female athletes to underfuel. You can keep up to date with Aimee's work via Instagram: @committednutrition2020 and Twitter: @Aimeellen1 . Get your discounted early bird ticket to LTAD Network Conference here! The 2022 Conference runs from 9-10th July at Hartpury University with a selection of world class speakers! Don't miss out! Get more details and secure your place here! To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Dr Liz Durden-Myers is a physical education researcher and teacher educator with over 15 years' experience within education across the primary, secondary and higher education sectors. She is currently a Senior Lecturer In Physical Education at the University of Gloucestershire & Bath Spa University, Managing Director & Co-Founder at PE Scholar & Scholary and Past Chair of the International Physical Literacy Association (IPLA). Liz is a qualified teacher and holds a PhD in Physical Literacy, a MA in Education, a MSc in Psychology and a BA (Hons) in Physical Education with QTS. Her research fields include Education, Physical Education, Philosophy, Health, Sport and Wellbeing. She has specific expertise in Physical Literacy, Teaching Pedagogy, Curriculum Design and Teacher Professional Development. Liz is an international speaker, passionate educator and physical activity advocate who champions the value of physical activity for life, for health, wellbeing and human flourishing. In this episode she discusses: The concept of human flourishing and the key principles. The relationship between Physical Activity and our Environment. What exactly is "Physical Literacy". How do we assess Physical Literacy? What is success in Physical Education? Are current/future generations of teachers equipped to deliver PE effectively? Why PE should stand for "Positive Experiences" not "Public Embarrassment". Get your discounted early bird ticket to LTAD Network Conference here! The 2022 Conference runs from 9-10th July at Hartpury University with a selection of world class speakers! Don't miss out! Get more details and secure your place here! To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Dan Howells is a high performance coach, with a career spanning over 15 years of work in elite sport, both in the UK and the USA. Dan is a certified Strength & Conditioning coach and has worked with: Olympic and Paralympic Programmes, US and GB Ski Team, English Institute of Sport, Wasps Rugby Club, England Rugby 7s, Team GB Rugby 7s (2016 and 2020 Olympics) and Houston Astros MLB Club. As well as focusing on creating impact and success within performance sport organisations, Dan is passionate about creating real world learning opportunities for developing coaches and practitioners. Coaching coaches is something he is heavily invested in. In this episode Dan discusses: His career in Premiership Rugby, the HSBS 7's World Series, the Olympics and Major League Baseball. How Collaborate Sports was born out of his own adaptability during covid. How Collaborate Sports is helping practitioners gain exposure to real world scenarios. The difference between Coaching vs Facilitating and Negligence vs Mistakes. Why mentoring can help speed up the time reaching successful resolutions. Why mentoring should be a deliberate decision to raise awareness of developmental gaps. What good mentoring should look/feel like. To learn more about Dan's work with Collaborate Sports you can check out his accounts on Twitter: @howellsdan , Instagram: @collaborate_sports and the website www.collaboratesports.com . Get your discounted early bird ticket to LTAD Network Conference here! The 2022 Conference runs from 9-10th July at Hartpury University with a selection of world class speakers! Don't miss out! Get more details and secure your place here! To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Ashley Jones is a rugby strength and conditioning coach who has worked at the highest levels of the game for the last 30 years across 4 continents. He was involved with the physical preparation of the Crusaders (Super XV competition), New Zealand All Blacks, Australian Wallabies, Panasonic Rugby in Japan, Edinburgh Rugby in Scotland and the Samoan Rugby Union, prior to joining the Houston Saber cats. He was awarded the NSCA's Professional Coach of the Year in 2016. Ashley holds his CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) since 1988. He is also a columnist at www.elitefts.com and is a sought after speaker and writer for organisations around the world. In this episode Ashley discuss: - how he accidentally ended up playing rugby union instead of rugby league. - A formative interaction with a team captain. - How he went from teaching to coaching. - How his coaching career developed and took him around the world. - What traits he's noticed in great coaches and athletes in the teams he's coached. - His approach to athletic development. To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Dr Sean Cumming is a Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Sciences at the University of Bath, as well as a consultant for the Premier League, Football Association, Lawn Tennis Association and Bath Rugby. In this podcast Sean discusses: The differences between Growth, Maturation, PHV PWV. How these differ between males and females. The effect maturation has on physical attributes like speed, strength and power. The difference between Biobanding and Relative Age. How Biobanding is being used in different organisations. You can follow Sean's work via his Research Gateway profile page. Keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our Website, Twitter and Instagram. You can leave us feedback or submit a question for future episodes here.

Dan Noble is the Director of Hockey at Upper Canada College and Former Director of Athlete Performance & Development at The Hill Academy. He is also the Director of Performance at Oshawa Generals and Halifax Thunderbirds as well as the owner of Noble Sports & Performance. He is an Athletic Development Coach, Speaker & Consultant who works with athletes and organizations from the minor, international & professional level. In this episode Dan discusses: His time at the Hill Academy. How volunteering frequently lead to working with the Chinese National Women's Hockey Team. Why connecting with the person within the athlete is vital. Working with the Canadian Women's team in lockdown for 600+ days in the lead up to their Gold Medal at the Winter Olympics. Why collaboration with the athlete is important. You can keep up to date with Dan via Instagram: @coachnoble45 and Twitter: @coachnoble45. To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

David Johnson is an Academy Sports Scientist at West Ham United and previously Academy S&C coach at AFC Bournemouth. He is a PhD candidate at the University of Bath investigating Training Load in Academy Footballers. He holds an MRes in Health and Wellbeing at The University of Bath and a BSc Exercise and Sports Science graduate from Manchester Metropolitan University. In this episode David discusses: How his MRes research investigated the time lost to injuries during the period of 88-95% Predicted Adult Height. How this set the stage for a PhD investigating this issue in greater detail. Identifying the issue of increased injury rates in periods of growth and presenting back to the multi-disciplinary team. Why the overall training load including activities outside of the primary sporting context are important to understand the variety in training load. His intervention seeking to reduce the impact of Growth Related Injuries and the massive 76% reduction they achieved. Why a greater strength training stimulus may be necessary during periods before Growth Related Injuries present. The concept of the "Activity Ladder" and some of the training modification made for players with Growth Related Injuries. You can keep up to date with David's work via his Research Gate profile, as well as his Twitter account: @david_johnson11 . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Dr Sean Cumming is a Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Sciences at the University of Bath, as well as a consultant for the Premier League, Football Association, Lawn Tennis Association and Bath Rugby. He previously provided "An idiot's guide to Growth, Maturation and Biobanding" in Season 1, Episode 11 of the podcast. In this episode Sean discusses: Some of the interesting research projects that have happened in the Growth & Maturation space since our last chat in 2019. The research by Megan Hill showing the influence of peak height velocity on match grades in Academy Footballers. The research by David Johnson showing that the impact of Growth related injuries can be attenuated in Academy Footballers. The continued confusion of people wrongly using Relative Age Effect and Maturation interchangeably. Why the Maturity Offset method has a large error and shouldn't be a primary tool for monitoring maturation status. Where the research is heading in the future, including the on pitch visual screening behaviours of late vs early maturers. You can follow Sean's work via his Research Gateway profile page. To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Pratik Patel is the former Director of Performance Nutrition and Assistant S&C with the New York Giants in the NFL for 4 years. Prior to that, Pratik was the Director of Sports Nutrition at University of Oregon, Sports Dietician at Michigan State and interned at the Houston Texans, Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals. In this episode Pratik discusses: His own eating and exercise behaviours as a youth. Some of the nutrition challenges that face College and NFL athletes. The fundamental principles that young athletes and their coaches should master before progressing to the complex ideas. Some key principles to help youth athletes gain lean mass. The frame size profile as a limiting factor for muscle gain. Why he no longer works in the NFL and what projects he has coming up. You can keep up to date with Pratel via his Instagram account: @pratikxpatel and via his Twitter account: @pratikxpatel . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Joel Brannigan is an experienced coach and manager, having worked in strength and conditioning since his retirement from professional rugby in 2004, with a career that say him playing for Edinburgh, London Welsh RFC and Newcastle Falcons RFC and representing Scotland at international level. Accredited in 2007, Joel has worked with success across a diverse range of organisations and has a depth of experience in elite and professional sport, NGBs, education settings and the private sector. He has been delivering workshops for the UKSCA since 2012 as a tutor and is also a practising assessor on the current accreditation process. In addition, he has been involved in several UKSCA working groups on the subject of early years practitioner development; he is also part of the team who has taken the new UKSCA Trainer Award from its infancy to product launch. In this episode Joel discusses: The big impact a PE teacher had on him in his youth as a "big" kid. How being "consistently average" helped him become a professional rugby player. The influences key mentors played in his development as a coach. The various changes in the Northumbria program over the years in relation to funding at the university. The challenges encountered when working with student athletes. The trends he has noticed emerging with student athletes arriving at university. You can keep up to date with Joel via Twitter: @joelbrannigan03 . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk ..

Sophie is the Director of Strength and Conditioning at Brisbane Boys' College in Australia. She has spent many years working in the youth athletic development space and also has experience in a professional sporting capacity. Her current role at Brisbane Boys' College sees her responsible for the implementation and continued improvement of sport specific S&C as well as general long-term athletic development programs across the school. Sophie's philosophy as it pertains to youth S&C , is to deliver an all-encompassing approach to sport and general wellbeing which includes the inter-related aspects of training, resilience, nutrition and injury management. In this episode Sophie discusses: Why the development space is such a rewarding context. An Overview of the staffing structure and logistics of the BBC program. How the program has expanded from a 1st XV and 1st 8 rowing program to service more students. The Green, White, Black program they use. Why it's important to encourage young boys to make more sensible decisions in the weight room. The future of the BBC program. You can keep up to date with Sophie's work via Instagram: @s_pidcock and Twitter: @soph_pidcock . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

John Noonan is a performance coach, lecturer and business owner, he has over 15 years experience working with youth, senior and international athletes across various professional sports including Olympic medalists and National champions. In 2018 John founded his business Noonan Performance were he now works as a performance coach consultant to elite athletes and corporate clients, as well as running a coach mentorship programme. John is also a regular speaker at national and international conferences and a guest lecturer in strength and conditioning at Liverpool John Moores University. In this episode John discusses: What key life values & priorities influenced his decision to walk away from a Premier League role. How the pandemic has increased the number of coaches looking for more autonomy over their life/career. His Family, Fulfillment and Finance framework for decision making around career opportunities/progression. How whether you are a Breaker, Survivior, Thriver or Redefiner will influence your values and decisions. The importance of identifying your values and making decisions in line with them. Why the conventional wisdom of degree, internships, fulltime role may not be suitable for everyone. You can follow John's work via his Instagram account: @johnnoonancoach , Twitter account: @johnnoonancoach and website: www.noonanperformance.com , where you can buy a copy of the "Family, Fulfillment and Finance model". To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Michael Boyle is the co-owner of Mike Boyle Strength and Conditioning, and the co-founder of Certified Functional Strength Coach. Boyle is also one of the worlds' foremost educators in the areas of performance training, personal training and athletic rehabilitation. Boyle has been involved in training and rehabilitation with a wide range of athletes, including stars in every major professional sport. Mike has also served as a consultant to some of the top teams in the NFL, NHL, as well as numerous division one athletic programs. In addition, Boyle has been involved in Olympic Gold Medal efforts in women's soccer, women's ice hockey, gymnastics and judo. In 2012 and 2013 Boyle was a Strength and Conditioning Consultant to the Boston Red Sox, winners of the 2013 World Series and, from 1991-1999 Boyle served as the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Boston Bruins. Boyle served as strength and conditioning coach at Boston University from 1983-2012. Also an author and video seminar producer, Boyle recently released New Functional Training for Sports, his fourth book.  In this episode Mike discusses:  Why his Tweet of a "bad program" had such an uptake. What program High school athletes should really be following. Whether you should teach Olympic lifting or not. How Equipment and Facility layout dictates programming. Why It's not about what you like. Simple and logical strategies to increase load in beginner trainees. Why it's important to consider the influence of drug users in popular programs.  His simplistic periodisation. The concept of "orthopedic cost" in programming. You can follow Mike's work via his Instagram account: @michael_boyle1959 , his Twitter account: @mboyle1959 and via his site www.strengthcoach.com . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Matt McInnes Watson is a performance coach and specialist in track and field, speed, power and plyometrics. Matt is the owner of Plus Plyos, a coaching business that provides plyometric programs and education. He is studying for a PhD in Plyometrics whilst teaching in the United Arab Emirates and coaching athletes from the U.K. and U.S.  In this episode Matt discusses:  His initial interest in plyometrics coming through basketball and athletics. The influence of a significant mentor in his coaching methodology. Some of the misleading research on plyometrics. A solid definition to decide if an activity is plyometric or not. Some of the volumes and doses required to elicit a training response. His tier system of categorising plyometric exercises.  Some unique metrics he and a colleague have calculated. You can follow Matt's work via his Instagram account: @plusplyos and via the website: www.plusplyos.com . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Derek Evely has taken a career path unique in Olympic sport. As an athletics coach, he has coached professionally at all levels along the developmental continuum and is widely regarded as a foremost expert in both youth development training / programming and elite training methodology. As a coach he has produced three World Junior Championship medalists, of which two went on to become Olympic Medalists. He was the development coach for Gary Reed (IAAF World Championships 800m Silver Medalist), Dylan Armstrong (Beijing Olympic Shot Put Bronze Medalist) and Sophie Hitchon (2016 Olympic Hammer Throw Bronze Medalist). He has coached numerous national age class, junior and senior record holders, including Sultana Frizell, the current Canadian Record Holder in the women's hammer throw. From 1998 - 2012 has was a national team coach for both Britain and Canada to every major championship on the global calendar including the Olympic Games, IAAF World Championships, European Championships, Pan American Games and Commonwealth Games. He was the Loughborough High Performance Training Centre Director for British Athletics leading into the 2012 Olympic Games where he coached the youngest athlete on the British Athletics Team (Hitchon) to her first Olympic final. From 2005 to 2009 he was the Sport Science Manager for the Canadian Athletics Coaching Center. Currently, he consults and coaches with federations and individuals worldwide on all aspects of developmental and high-performance programming and is the owner / operator of EveltrakSport.com, a sport training and information resource for coaches, trainers, teachers and parents. He is also the host of EvelChat, the EveltrakSport.com coaching podcast.  In this episode Derek discusses:  His time at the GB athletic training centre. The Bondarchuk classification system. Why a common language is important to ensure clear communication among coaches. Why the process of writing down your training framework is vital. You can follow Derek's work via his Instagram account: @eveltrak , Twitter @eveltrak and his website: www.eveltraksport.com . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Des Ryan works for Setanta College as Director of Coaching & Performance. Des is one of the leading youth coaches and performance managers in sport and a world-renowned practitioner and speaker in the field of youth athletic development. At Setanta College, Des will contribute to the Colleges mission to be recognized in Ireland and Abroad as a leading provider of human performance and sport science research, training and education. Des joined Setanta from his position as Head of Sport Medicine & Athletic Development at Arsenal Football Club Academy, which he held for over 8 years and where he has re-shaped the concept of player development within the world of football. He has previously served as Head of S&C at Connacht Rugby, S&C to Ireland and as Fitness Education Manager within the IRFU, where he spent over 13 years developing the IRFU's coach and player development system. Over the years Des has presented at the UKSCA, ASCA and the NSCA conferences as well as many other conferences around the world. He also has worked as a consultant to World Rugby and the National Cricket academy in India. Des has a Masters in Strength and Conditioning and is also an Accredited Strength and Conditioning coach with the UKSCA. He also has achieved the High Performance Sports Accreditation from the British Association of Sports and Exercise Science and is a chartered scientist. In this episode Des discusses: How organisations can recruit top coaching talent.# What they should offer as a package to hold on to good coaches. Why the performance review meeting is the most important meeting of the year. The importance of a multidisciplinary mission and vision. Some of the opportunities early career coaches overlook to their detriment. You can follow Des's work via his Instagram account: @desryan75 , Twitter: @DeasunO and the Setanta College website: www.setantacollege.com . To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Elisabeth Oehler is a strength coach who worked for the German Weightlifting Federation from 2017-2020 as manager of the youth department and later Head of Talent Identification. She's a licensed weightlifting coach (high performance) by the German Olympic Sports Confederation and holds several qualifications in youth development and strength & conditioning. In 2021 she started her own business consulting and coaching in National Governing Bodies of different sports. She helps organizations implementing talent development programs and improving coaching education.   In this episode Elisabeth discusses:  The differences in the German Sport System vs other countries.  How not every child is drawn to participating in Team Sports.  How she structures youth weightlifting sessions, incorporating other sporting activities.  Giving children a voice in designing the program.  Her colour coded system for encouraging children to master technique rather than intensity.  You can follow Elisabeth's work via her Instagram account: @eo.performance , Twitter @eo_performance and her website: www.eo-performance.com .  To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .

Jeremy Frisch is the owner and director of Achieve Performance Training in Clinton, Mass. He is the former assistant strength and conditioning coach for the Holy Cross athletic department. While there, he worked directly with the Crusader men's basketball team, in addition to serving as the strength coach for Holy Cross' men's soccer, men's and women's lacrosse, baseball, softball, field hockey, tennis and women's track & field squads. Prior to joining Holy Cross, Frisch served as the sports performance director at Teamworks Sports Center.. He also served as a speed and strength coach for Athletes Edge Sports Training, and did a strength and conditioning internship at Stanford University. Frisch is a 2007 graduate of Worcester State College with a bachelor's degree in health science and physical education. He was a member of the football and track teams during his days at Worcester State and Assumption College.  In this episode Jeremy discusses:  Why spotting missing developmental skills fuelled his choice to leave a collegiate role to work with kids.  A typical day at Achieve Performance in terms of groups, activities and programs.  The importance of tumbling/rolling skills in risk management. His priorities when coaching athletes in different age groups.  What he monitors and measures in his programs. Balancing chaos and safety.  Hiding your coaching objectives in engaging activities.  You can follow Jeremy's work via Instagram: @achieve_performance and Twitter: @jeremyfrisch  and via www.achieveperformance.training .  To learn more about the LTAD Network check out www.ltadnetwork.com or follow on Instagram: @ltadnetwork or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ltadnetwork . You can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our www.athleticevolution.co.uk , Instagram: @athleticevouk and Twitter: @athleticevouk .