Developing Track And Field Talent Identification Model in Iran

In the pursuit of success in the world, Iran track and field requires to use a single and well-codified talent identification system. The present study aimed to design a model for Iran track and field talent identification. The research methodology was qualitative in the form of three stages. The first stage involved the content analysis of researches on talent identification. The second stage was semi-structured interviews with the convenience sampling method until theoretical saturation with 16 experts, coaches and the secretaries of the track and field talent identification committee of Education Ministry and Track and Field Federation. The third stage of the Delphi approach was conducted in three rounds with 13 interviewees. In the third round of Delphi method, the 7-stage Iran track and field talent identification model was approved: children are introduced by their parents and sport teachers from the age of 8 and progress to maturity and championship up to the age of 20. Also, this model of talent identification illustrates the development of an athlete through 12 years of codified training. Given the importance of this sport, Track and Field Federation managers and authorities are suggested to use this model for talent identification and talent direction to reach more success in this sport field.