ABSTRACT
Traditional approaches to skill development in coach education programmes have prioritised the isolation of technical skills that often divorces the player from the environment. More recent research, understanding and practice has focused on alternative approaches to skill acquisition which are considered more dynamic, ecologically valid and non-linear. This chapter begins by reviewing some of the core processes and limitations inherent within traditional approaches to sport skill development in youth populations. Through the use of applied examples within cricket, progressive approaches from the non-linear pedagogical framework are used to present an alternative philosophy in the coaching of youth athletes. The Rainbow Coaching System is presented as one way of applying this approach by creating a consistent reference tool in the design of more representative, immersive and supportive coaching environments.
