Independence and Leadership

Athletes aged 7 to 18 who want to take more initiative, make thoughtful choices and develop leadership through everyday actions.

Written directly to the athlete and suitable across sports. Younger readers will benefit from reading with a parent, carer or coach. Older athletes can use the questions more independently, adapting them to their experience and circumstances.

64 focused sections organised into 19 chapters, with a front cover, contents, top tips and closing message.

Values, initiative, decision-making, appropriate limits, everyday independence, leading by example, using your voice, shared leadership, inclusion, influence, small projects and online choices.

Practical examples, reflection questions and useful takeaways connect learning in sport with everyday situations at school, at home and with others.

Choose suitable responsibilities and recognise your limits.

Make decisions by considering options, values and likely effects.

Lead by example and use your voice thoughtfully.

Share leadership and support others without taking over.

Prepare for greater independence while keeping trusted support close.

Independence and Leadership is part of the Sports Progression Hub Life Skills Through Sport collection. It can be used on its own, a section at a time, to support conversations and practical changes in everyday life.

The collection also includes Discipline and Responsibility, Communication and Teamwork, Resilience and Problem Solving. Each guide explores a different part of growing through sport, with room for individual needs, changing circumstances and appropriate adult support.