Comparing the practices of US Soccer against a global model for integrated development of mass and high-performance sport

Abstract

This study examines the current state of soccer in the USA against an ideal-type model for developing high-performance sport integrated with mass participation. A questionnaire was developed for the following elements of the model: talent identification and development; advanced athlete support; training centers; competitions; intellectual services; partnerships with supporting agencies; and balanced and integrated funding and structures of mass and elite sport. Survey questions were validated by 12 international experts including executives from sport governing bodies, soccer coaches, academicians, and administrators. To determine the areas for improvement, 125 coaches completed the questionnaire. Additionally, possible advancements were identified through semi-structured discussions with seven top soccer administrators. Results suggest possible enhancements at the macro-level (e.g. integrated partnership efforts particularly among sport governing bodies, governments, and lotteries), meso-level (e.g. comprehensive coach education and community training centers), and micro-level (e.g. uniform national conditions for long-term athlete development).