An analysis of talent identification and maintenance of sports programmes in Wa polytechnic of the upper west region, Ghana

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to analyze talent identification and management programmes in Wa Polytechnic. The descriptive survey research method was used. Thirty (30) athletes and three (3) help-coaches in Wa Polytechnic were randomly selected as the sample for the study. A structured questionnaire, which was face validated by my supervisor was used to gather the data. The data was analyzed using frequency tables and percentages. Based on the data analysis it was realized that there were other ways that might help Wa Polytechnic in contributing to the development of student potential athletes, so that they can effectively feed into the mainstream sport system. It was recommended among others that, the management body of Wa Polytechnic should increase admission quota for sportsmen and women with the required qualification and institute scholarship, discount, and citations for distinguished sportsmen and women. This research presents the need for focusing around growing and sustaining larger numbers of student athletes and improving talent identification and development programmes to help more athletes excel at various levels of competitions.