Sporting Excellence Programme 2023

EXCELLENCE PROGRAMME

EXCELLENCE PROGRAMME

Academic Flexibility Integrating academic flexibility and support into a school’s sporting excellence programme stands as a crucial element in fostering all-encompassing and flourishing student-athletes. Acknowledging the demanding nature of both academic pursuits and sports, every participant within the programme will have the opportunity to collaborate with the Dean of Studies and the Dean of Activities to establish customised adjustments within their academic schedule. This method guarantees emerging talents can ardently pursue their athletic aspirations while attaining scholarly distinction. Through personalised scheduling alternatives, including flexibility in school entry and departure times, as well as the number of academic subjects, students are empowered to adeptly manage their commitments and time. Moreover, dedicated academic advisors play a pivotal role in guiding athletes, helping them strike a harmonious balance between their studies and training. Female Performance and Health The topic of female physiology is often overlooked but is an integral part of daily life for females involved in sport. This webinar aims to address this important subject- targeting both athletes and parents. The following topics will be covered, and additional support will be available for athletes seeking further advice: 1. Understanding Female Physiology: Exploring the unique physiological aspects of female athletes and how they differ from their male counterparts. 2. Healthy Athlete: Discussing the components of being a healthy athlete, considering the specific needs and challenges faced by female athletes. 3. Understanding the Menstrual Cycle: Providing insights into the menstrual cycle, including its phases, hormonal changes, and its impact on physical and psychological well-being. 4. Tracking the Menstrual Cycle: Exploring methods and tools for tracking the menstrual cycle and utilizing this information to enhance training, performance, and recovery.

Sports Psychology Everyone acknowledges that psychology is important for all athletes however, not many spend the appropriate time in developing the mental side of sport. The Sport Psychology programme will provide extensive development and support via the following process: • Mental Toughness Questionnaire (MTA-Q) will be developed and sent to ALL athletes • This information will identify areas of strength as well as areas that could be improved. A breakdown of both mental toughness in a number of key domains as well as a mental health score as assessed using the DASS (Depression Anxiety Stress Scale) will be provided to the student and parent. • Four Webinars will be held to discuss specific elements attached to key areas identified in the MTA-Q • Practical workshops will follow to further support the students that address practical ways for reducing / controlling stress. There will then be the opportunity for individual consults if needed - this will be identified on an as needs basis. If any student requires additional support this could be available via the Medicare Mental Health Care Plan. Nutrition Understanding the significance of optimal nutrition is crucial for everyone, particularly young athletes as they navigate the complex growth period and development stage of life that is adolescence. Knowledge of proper nutrition and its impact on sports performance can differentiate a good athlete from a truly exceptional one. The nutrition programme will be divided into three components: 1. Parental Workshop: Educating parents is essential for promoting change and fostering an understanding of the nutritional requirements for their aspiring superstars. This workshop will provide parents with an overview of

5. Training Tips for Different Menstrual Cycle Phases: Offering practical advice on adjusting training strategies and approaches based on the different phases of the menstrual cycle. This webinar aims to educate females on the importance of understanding the physiological and psychological effects of the menstrual cycle. It also provides tools and knowledge to assist in tracking and comprehending these impacts. One such tool is the Oura ring, which enables monitoring of the menstrual cycle. Athlete Management We are offering the option to purchase an OURA ring, a cutting-edge device that offers 24/7 heart rate monitoring, personalised health insights, sleep analysis, breathing and meditation guidance and much more. This ring serves as a comprehensive student/ athlete management platform, providing valuable information and in-depth understanding of one’s body and health. The data collected by the OURA ring will be managed and analysed by Sophie Dodd, the Head of Athletic Development, and/or Annette Eastwood, a sports physiologist. Once per term, students will receive feedback on patterns and trends identified in their data. For instance, if there is a consistent pattern of poor sleep, the corresponding webinar session will focus on the importance of sleep, using their own data to educate and emphasise the significance of quality rest. Additionally, daily monitoring of athletes will be conducted to identify any red flags, such as persistently poor sleep or consistently elevated heart rate. This enables us to have personalised discussions with the athletes and provide assistance if needed. The OURA ring and its associated monitoring system offer a cost-effective way for students to educate themselves and gain a deeper understanding of their body’s recovery process. It empowers them to discover what recovery methods work best for them and make informed decisions regarding their well being. It’s important to note that the purchase of the OURA ring is optional, and students can choose whether they wish to take advantage of this opportunity.

healthy nutrition, enabling them to support their children’s choices. 2. Student Workshops: Three workshops will allow students to submit nutrition-related questions for discussion and clarification with a focus on the following topics: a) Healthy Habits: A holistic understanding of what constitutes good food. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of consuming unprocessed, whole foods from organic sources. Students will also learn how to interpret nutritional labels and identify desirable or undesirable ingredients. b) Hydration: The significance of proper hydration for athletes and effective strategies for maintaining optimal hydration levels to enhance performance. c) Eating for Performance: Identifying the best pre- and post-training foods to maximise the benefits of rigorous training sessions and facilitate optimal recovery. d) Meal Structure: Learning how to construct a well-balanced meal with appropriate ratios of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Students will gain an understanding of the role each macro-nutrient plays in the body and why it is crucial to maintain sufficient levels of each in their diet. 3) Optional 1-on-1 Support: Athletes who desire additional or individualised support regarding their health and nutrition will have the opportunity to access a more comprehensive approach to address any specific concerns they may have. This support will be provided through a 12-week intensive health programme. The programme involves analysing the athlete’s personal blood work and correlating it with physical, mental, and emotional symptoms. Based on the findings, a detailed protocol will be developed to optimise the athlete’s health and well-being. The programme includes an individualised plan incorporating 12 weeks of tailored natural supplementation, optimal dietary recommendations, and vital lifestyle adjustments. Please note that additional costs will apply for this personalised support.

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