Whole brain learning is an approach to human development incorporating 9 elements that ultimately engage all of our learning systems. Whole brain learning relies heavily on clear objectives and structured levels. It sets the stage.
These benefits are often reserved for privileged athletes who have access to advanced training, coaching, and resources from a young age. Imagine how many more great athletes we could develop if all children, regardless of their socio-economic background, had the same opportunities to reach their full potential.
Favoring the Privileged
Consider a scenario where 100 fifteen-year-old children try out for a volleyball team. These are not just random children; they are all genuinely interested in the sport and motivated to improve. Under the current system, the selection process tends to pick out the "best" players based on their existing skills and experience. However, this approach largely overlooks the fact that children develop at different rates and that some may have untapped potential that is not immediately apparent at this age.
Currently, those who make the cut are often the ones who have had the most access to resources, such as specialized coaching, travel teams, and training camps. These privileged children have simply had more opportunities to learn and grow in the sport, giving them an advantage over others who may not have had the same access. But what if the system didn't stop there?
Equal Opportunities to All
Imagine if, instead of selecting only a handful of players at age 15, we provided equal training opportunities to all 100 children, allowing them to participate in the program and progress at their own pace. With clearly defined objectives and structured levels, these young athletes would have the chance to develop their skills over time, free from the constraints of early selection.
This approach would be more in line with whole brain learning, which recognizes that development is a dynamic, non-linear process. By providing all participants with the opportunity to learn and advance at their own rate, we would be fostering an environment where diverse talents can emerge. For example, a young person who may not initially stand out at age 15 could develop into a remarkable player at 17 or 18, once they had the time and resources to grow at their own pace.
“Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does.” -Nelson Mandela
By offering every child the chance to engage in sports, regardless of their starting point, we unlock the power to discover greatness in unexpected places. This inclusivity not only transforms the individual but also has the potential to inspire communities and promote social change.
The Benefits of a Progressive Model and the Role of Mentorship
If we adopted a more inclusive model, where all interested players were given access to progressive levels of training, the impact on player development would be profound. First, it would ensure that no child is prematurely excluded from the sport, thus allowing for the possibility that late bloomers or those who learn at a different pace still have a chance to realize their potential.
John Wooden, one of the greatest coaches in basketball history, emphasized the importance of personal growth and opportunity: "Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do." Providing equal opportunities to all athletes aligns with this philosophy. It focuses on allowing every child to explore their capabilities without being limited by the constraints of early selection or a lack of access to resources.
Mentorship plays a crucial role in this inclusive model. A strong mentoring system can help guide these young athletes, providing them with not just skills and tactics but also confidence and resilience. Coaches and mentors who are aware of each player's unique learning style and developmental pace can foster an environment of support and encouragement. A mentor can inspire young athletes to make the most of their opportunities, regardless of where they started.
Mentorship goes beyond coaching; it is about building character, instilling values, and nurturing a passion for growth. When athletes are mentored, they learn to navigate challenges, build mental strength, and appreciate the journey of development itself. These lessons extend far beyond the sport and can shape their approach to life.
The Progressive Nature of Development Across All Arenas
A key aspect of whole brain learning is the recognition that learning is not static; it evolves and adapts to the individual's unique needs and pace. Allowing all 100 players to continue in the program would create a dynamic environment where skills are continuously refined, and players learn from each other in varied and unpredictable ways.
This inclusive approach would promote a mindset of continuous improvement, encouraging players to embrace challenges, build resilience, and develop a passion for the sport. Equal opportunities in sports can do just that—liberate the child's potential to grow, learn, and achieve in unimaginable ways.
"Free the child's potential, and you will transform him into the world." -Maria Montessori
Imagine the impact if we extended this developmental approach to all sports. Children in every sport, from soccer to swimming, would have the chance to develop at their own pace, supported by mentors who understand that growth is a personal and evolving journey. Imagine the impact if we applied this philosophy to education—where every student is given the tools and opportunities to thrive, guided by teachers who act as mentors rather than gatekeepers of knowledge.
The Power of Natural Selection Over Time
If we allowed all 100 athletes to continue with the program, some would naturally fall away over time as their interests change or as they discover that volleyball is not their true passion. However, this natural attrition would leave behind the most committed and talented players—the ones who genuinely want to pursue the sport and have the capacity to do so.
Within four or five years, the players remaining in the program would not just be the privileged few who had an early advantage, but a diverse group of athletes who have proven themselves through their dedication, growth, and development. By providing a level playing field, we allow every child to do their best with the opportunities given to them.
“The measure of who we are is what we do with what we have.” -Vince Lombardi
Unlocking the True Potential of All Athletes—and Beyond
By providing equal opportunities for all children to participate in sports programs, we can uncover hidden talents and develop more great athletes. Whole brain learning principles, such as structured levels and clear objectives, should not be reserved only for those who have had early access to resources. When we give every child the chance to learn and grow at their own pace, we create a fairer and more inclusive system that benefits everyone.
In the case of the 100 aspiring volleyball players, embracing this inclusive approach would mean recognizing that athletic potential does not depend solely on early access or privilege. It is about creating an environment where every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to explore their abilities, develop their skills, and reach their highest potential. By doing so, we would not only find the best players in a few years' time but also ensure that those players are truly the best, not just the most privileged.
Imagine the transformation if this approach were adopted across all fields—where mentorship, opportunity, and support for all children became the cornerstone of our sports teams, schools, and communities. The ripple effects of such an approach could be profound, creating not just better athletes but more empowered, resilient, and capable young people prepared to excel in all areas of life.
Unlock the Full Potential of Your Team or Organization!
If this article resonated with you, and you're passionate about creating opportunities for every young athlete to thrive, then take the next step! Dive deeper into the art of effective mentoring with my book, "The Mentor's Handbook: Beyond a Strength-Based Approach." This guide provides actionable strategies to inspire and empower youth, whether on the field, in the classroom, or in everyday life.
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