Different Types of Growth

There are several different ways to look at the growth of an athlete. First, we can look at physical growth – the actual process of growing larger in height, weight, body mass, etc. Second, we have maturation – systems changes in the body that happen as younger people approach adulthood, including structural changes in the body and brain. Lastly, we have developed – the qualitative growth of cognition, understanding, mental and emotional maturity, and the interrelationship of the previous two types of growth mentioned. Choosing how to train and coach young people depends on the current state of growth – as determined by all three factors. Long-term development of athletic ability that requires those in charge of training are able to recognize the rate at which young athletes are improving and maturing, and are willing to cater their programs to the needs of those different types of learners. Children of the same age can have large disparities in physical maturation, and those children will have vastly different needs from a coach or athletic trainer. As children grow into adolescents, they also will grow into an appropriate “training age” – a level of maturity (both physical and mental) that will allow them to begin more rigorous, specific, and regular training routines focused on developing specific, baseball-focused skills. The training these young people receive during the early stages of their “training age” will help develop the habits and skills that stay with them throughout their athletic careers.