ABSTRACT
To provide optimal support to young talented athletes, a need exists for (sport) psychologists not only to have a good understanding of the significance and influence of career transitions, but also of how to work with talented athletes faced with transitional challenges. In this chapter, using the HAC model, a combined lifespan-holistic perspective on young athletes is presented. This is followed by an overview of competences (sport) psychologists require to work with young talented athletes facing transitions, including a knowledge base on transitions, intervention skills, and competences for interdisciplinary teamwork as part of career and transition support programmes. Finally, examples of interventions aimed at assisting young talented athletes to prevent and cope with transitional crises and suggestions for sport psychologists working with talented athletes faced with transitional challenges are provided.
