ABSTRACT
Much has been done to improve our understanding of how and why Relative Age Effects (RAEs) occur, but considerably less is known about how to reduce RAEs. This chapter examines different strategies designed to mitigate RAEs in situations where the performance of young athletes is evaluated subjectively. Three broad categories are identified, specifically those that seek to (1) directly alter the behaviour of observers who make subjective judgements of talent (particularly coaches and talent scouts), (2) implement rules when selecting teams, and (3) make adjustments to competition structures. Potential advantages and pitfalls of each approach are discussed.
