Youth Sports Summit

A one day professional in-person development summit for youth and pathways sports. MORE THAN ONE ROAD Developing flourishing people, not just young athletes Youth Sports Summit 2026 | Brisbane What if the best pathway to sporting success isn't the one we think it is? The evidence is compelling. The best junior athletes are rarely the best senior athletes. Research involving more than 9,000 athletes demonstrates that those who ultimately reach the highest levels often take different pathways, specialise later and experience greater diversity in their sporting development. So how can schools, coaches and sporting organisations create environments that develop sporting potential while helping young people flourish? Join the Wellbeing Science Institute for an inspiring, evidence-based and practical one-day conference exploring a fresh approach to youth sport development. Featuring Darius Boyd, Queensland State of Origin coach, alongside leading educators and wellbeing specialists, the summit will challenge traditional thinking about talent identification, early specialisation and sporting success. Through keynote presentations, real-world case studies, interactive workshops and panel discussions, we will explore how to create sporting environments where young people: • Stay engaged in sport, education and personal development • Develop agency through greater voice, choice and ownership of their sporting journey • Feel safe physically, psychologically and socially • Experience fun through play, variety and positive sporting experiences Participants will hear from experts in elite sport, school-based sporting programs, female athlete development, parent engagement and holistic wellbeing. Most importantly, you will leave with practical strategies you can immediately apply to strengthen your own sporting environment. Who should attend? School sport directors, specialist sport teachers, coaches, athlete wellbeing professionals, pathway managers, academy staff and anyone passionate about developing young people through sport. Event details • Date: Tuesday 1 December 2026 • Venue: Brisbane Broncos Leagues Club, Red Hill, Brisbane • Time: 8.00 am – 4.20 pm • Tickets: $150 per person, including lunch and refreshments • Places: Limited to 100 delegates There is more than one road to the top. Our responsibility is to ensure young people flourish along the way. Join us to explore what the future of youth sporting development could look like.