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Research design in progress [Sep '24 to Apr '25] on how adult players can achieve the desired Foundation 3 (F3) outcome
Background
Background
Key challenges faced during the move from minor to adult have been highlighted*:
confusion about which teams players will be on and who they contact
how will playing style, pace and physicality differences be accommodated
what assessment will be carried out on playing ability and best match-up for skill level and player aspirations
fear of drop-off during transition phase as friends might lose motivation if not supported or valued
feeling uncomfortable or awkward discussing skills or ambitions with coaches they are unfamiliar with
anxious about availability due to school / college / travel / other commitments and how that will impact their position
Proposed PLO Role
Proposed PLO Role
To address these challenges, a PLO role has been identified. The PLO would act as a key link between adult management groups and players moving to year one adult.Â
This person will be a familiar face from the year group of players (e.g., players born 2000, PLO would be volunteer from that year) and collaborate with the mentor groups towards the end of the minor year two season (U18), through to the start of adult.
PLO Role
PLO Role
The role is short in term - up to 6 to 9 months of adult year one and focuses on supporting and guiding players through their moving phase, ensuring they feel supported and engaged as they move into the adult sections. The emphasis on communication, trust-building, and neutrality ensures that the PLO can effectively help bridge the gap between players and new mentor groups. Ideally, the PLO would...
NOT be a selector, part of the coaching team or committee / section member to maintain neutrality, though this may vary depending on group resources.
act as a liaison between the mentor groups, ensuring clear and effective communication for the players.
if required, facilitate communication between players and the mentor groups, addressing any concerns or issues raised.
ensure for moving players, training panels and methods are known and are aligned with their training, panel, and development needs.
monitor with the adult section mentor groups, player engagement and retention, addressing any signs of drop-off or lack of involvement.
PLO Appointment and Set-up
PLO Appointment and Set-up
Step 1
Step 1
Minor section or group:
appoints interested member of minor year as PLO
notifies adult section and players for contact purposes
Step 2
Step 2
Player Liaison Officer:
helps ensure a 'welcome to adult section' is organised
players have all known information available
Step 3
Step 3
Season check-in:
continue to support players with their onboarding and queries
continue to meet with adult mentors on player engagement and concerns, if any
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