The Long-Term Curler Development (LTCD) Model reflects the fact that all curlers start at different points in their life.
The model is an updated version of the Long-Term Athlete Development Model that was first developed by Curling Canada in 2008. Since then much has been learned about how curlers move from learners to more advanced curlers. The new model recognizes there are three pathways for curlers – Recreational, Competitive and Performance.
It reflects the fact that many curlers remain “Competitive for Life” and may transition between pathways multiple times in life. The LTCD Model clearly shows that the pathway for Recreational is much bigger, making the model relevant to all curlers, not just Performance athletes.
What is critical to the whole framework is the Foundational Stages that hold up the entire system – the Foundational Stages will “feed youth” to each of the three pathways.
Understanding the LTCD Model will allow coaches to provide athletes with the best possible support at each stage of their development, and allow for transition from Performance and Competitive for Life Pathways. The LTCD will also inform both athletes and parents about key developmental concepts and practices at each stage in the development pathway from frozen pond to podium.
A comprehensive supporting LTCD resource will be published to support the diagram in the coming months.
The ultimate goal is to create a world class system to create world class curlers – in whatever path they choose.
Curling For Life
BC Long-Term Athlete Development Model
This model integrates programs and activities offered by Curl BC and it’s members with Curling Canada’s LTCD model above.
OTHER RESOURCES OF INTEREST
