Selection and Deselection Policy for Squash

This document sets out the selection and deselection process for inclusion in the Loughborough Squash Performance Programme, together with the expectations that all selected athletes are expected to meet throughout their time on the programme. 
 
This document does not apply to selection for individual teams, matches or competitions. These decisions remain at the professional discretion of the Head Coach. 

Responsibility 

Selection and deselection decisions are the responsibility of the Head Coach. Where appropriate, the Head Coach may seek input from members of the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) and other relevant staff. Final responsibility rests with the Head Coach. 

Selection 

Selection decisions are based on the professional judgement of the Head Coach and may take account of: 

  • Current playing standard and demonstrated performance
  • Long-term performance potential
  • Coachability and commitment to development
  • Physical readiness to meet the demands of the programme
  • Commitment to the Programme Expectations set out in this document
  • Ability to contribute positively to the culture of the programme

Selection is not determined by any single criterion and is based on the overall balance of these factors. 

Programme Expectations 

Athletes selected onto the Performance Programme are expected to: 

  • Respond to communications from programme staff within two business days, or by any earlier deadline specified(exceptions made for leave/holiday periods).
  • Attend a minimum of three coach-led squash sessions per week, unless otherwise agreed with the Head Coach.
  • Engage fully and apply their best efforts in all training sessions and competition, taking responsibility for their own development and contributing positively to the development of others.
  • Complete the prescribed strength and conditioning programme.
  • Complete all prescribed prehabilitation and rehabilitation programmes.
  • Attend all scheduled appointments with members of the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT), unless an alternative arrangement has been agreed.
  • Arrive punctually and prepared for all training sessions, appointments, meetings and competitions.
  • Aim to play two competitive matches each week during the season, where appropriate opportunities are available.
  • Proactively seek competition opportunities and aim to compete in at least one to two tournaments during each half of the season.
  • Embody the programme values of being Committed, Respectful and Inquisitive, and contribute positively to the culture of the programme by supporting teammates, staff and the development of the wider squad.

Ongoing Review 

Selection is subject to ongoing review. Formal reviews will normally take place twice each academic year, although an athlete's place on the programme may be reviewed at any time where circumstances require. 

Deselection 

An athlete's place within the Performance Programme may be reviewed where there are concerns regarding their continued suitability for the programme, including but not limited to: 

  • Performance no longer meeting the required standard
  • Limited progression towards agreed performance goals
  • Failure to consistently meet the Programme Expectations
  • Long-term injury or circumstances significantly limiting engagement
  • Behaviour that negatively impacts the programme, its athletes or staff

Where appropriate, athletes will normally receive feedback, support and an opportunity to improve before deselection is considered. However, where circumstances are sufficiently serious or continued participation is no longer considered appropriate, deselection may occur without a formal improvement period. 

If an athlete is not happy with the selection decisions these steps may be taken: 

A. Non-selection

  1. If an athlete is not selected, they may seek honest and constructive feedback from the Head Coach in the first instance.
  2. If the athlete believes the sport has not followed due process, they may refer their non-selection to the Performance Manager.
  3. Information will be gathered from the Head Coach and the athlete. The matter will then be reviewed by members of the Performance Leadership Team who are not directly involved in that performance programme.

B. Deselection from the squad

  1. The Head Coach will inform the athlete of the reasons for deselection, based on the criteria set out for the relevant sport.
  2. The athlete can expect honest and constructive feedback, including what would be required for them to be considered for selection
  3. If the athlete believes the sport has not followed due process, they may refer their deselection to the Performance Manager.
  4. Information will be gathered from the Head Coach and the athlete. The matter will then be reviewed by members of the Performance Leadership Team who are not directly involved in that performance programme.

C. Appeal

  1. If an athlete believes the selection or deselection process has not been followed correctly, they may appeal to the Performance Director.
  2. Information will be gathered from the Head Coach and the athlete. The appeal will be reviewed by the Performance Director and the Director of Sport.