ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE YOUTH ATHLETE DEVELOPMENT POLICY FOR AGES 12–15 IN INDONESIA IN THE 2023–2024 PERIOD

Abstract

This study assesses the effectiveness of the Youth Athlete Development Policy for adolescents aged 12–15 in Indonesia during 2023–2024. The research focuses on: (1) evaluating the overall effectiveness of the policy, and (2) examining the performance of key components talent identification, training program quality, coaching competency, athlete monitoring and competition pathways. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining surveys of 240 respondents with interviews involving 20 key informants and document analysis. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and an effectiveness index, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. Findings show that the policy is moderately effective (average score 68%). Strengths include higher policy awareness and improved access to basic training programs. However, significant weaknesses remain: inconsistent talent identification, uneven training quality, limited coaching competency, weak monitoring systems, and irregular competition pathways. These challenges reduce the policy’s ability to fully support long-term athlete development. Overall, the policy provides a solid framework but requires improvement in standardization, coordination, coaching capacity, and competition structure to maximize youth athlete development outcomes.