In a move to optimise player development and future-proof the sport, Queensland Touch Football (QTF) has completed an extensive Talent Pathway Review. Conducted by McLaughlin Sports Consultancy, the review took place between February to April 2024 and aimed to evaluate and enhance the pathways available to players, coaches, and referees across the state.
The review identified several focus areas essential to building a more efficient, transparent, and high-performing system. These areas include culture, competition frameworks, coach development, and digital infrastructure.
A total of 17 recommendations were presented, with nine overarching focus areas ranging from purpose and performance culture to digital infrastructure and human resources.
- Purpose and Performance Culture: One of the foundational recommendations is to establish a clear purpose for the QTF Pathways and Performance System. The pathway aims to offer high-quality environments to identify, develop, and retain talent for major events like National Schools Championships and State of Origin. A “Cultural Blueprint” will guide all participants, embedding values such as integrity, well-being, and accountability.
- Participation Framework: QTF is also called to contribute to a framework in to streamline how players progress through the sport. This framework aims to help stakeholders, from coaches to referees, better support player development at various stages.
- Performance Competitions and Academies: A significant gap identified in the review was the need for performance-focused competitions. QTF is encouraged to govern events such as a new “SEQ Super-Series” in South East Queensland and establish high-quality academies like the “Future Maroons Performance Academy” to nurture emerging talent.
- Policies and Digital Infrastructure: The review recommends updating policies for talent identification and creating a centralized digital system to collect and analyze data on players and referees. A Talent ID webform could be implemented to ensure that Queensland’s touch football system remains inclusive and data-driven.
- Human Resources: Lastly, it was recommended that QTF establish a dedicated Pathways and Performance Manager to ensure strategic oversight and sustainable success. A volunteer taskforce would assist in implementing the pathway and performance plan.
In June 2024, the QTF board endorsed in principle the findings of the review.
The review’s methodology included stakeholder interviews, e-surveys, and document analysis to create evidence-based recommendations. As QTF prepares to implement these changes, its leadership remains committed to fostering a culture of performance, transparency, and excellence.
The Queensland Touch Football community is set for a transformative period that promises to enhance the development of talent and solidify Queensland’s position as a leader in touch football.
To read all of the Talent Pathway Review findings visit here
