Singapore Gymnastics (SG) Strengthens Performance Development Pathway with New Performance Development Programme (PDP) Framework

SG has developed its new PDP Framework and NTC Policy, establishing a clearer and more integrated approach for the long-term development of gymnasts in Singapore.

Together, the two documents provide greater clarity on how SG, clubs, coaches, gymnasts, parents and performance partners contribute to the development pathway, from the early stages of performance development through to National Squad participation, international representation and Major Championships and Games.

A Clearer Performance Development Pathway

The PDP Framework provides the overarching direction for SG's performance development system. It brings together the key components of the pathway, including National Programmes, the Singapore Gymnastics Development Programme (SGDP), NTCs, National Squads, international competition opportunities, coach development and Performance Support.

At the heart of the framework is a commitment to long-term, gymnast-centred development. It recognises that gymnasts develop at different rates and that different disciplines may require different development and training models.

Importantly, the pathway is designed as a connected system. Clubs remain fundamental to the development of Singapore gymnasts, while SG's national programmes and initiatives provide additional opportunities, expertise and support as gymnasts progress.

Strengthening the NTC Environment

Alongside the PDP Framework, the new NTC Policy establishes the philosophy, governance and operation of SG's National Training Centres for Men's Artistic Gymnastics (MAG), Women's Artistic Gymnastics (WAG) and Rhythmic Gymnastics (RG).

The NTCs provide specialised, centralised high-performance training environments for gymnasts progressing towards National Squad selection, international representation and success at Major Championships and Games.

The Policy provides greater clarity around key areas including gymnast admission, development monitoring and performance reviews, continuation and transition, Performance Support, safeguarding, and the respective responsibilities of SG, coaches, gymnasts, parents and home clubs.

A key principle of the Policy is that NTCs are designed to complement, not replace, the role of affiliated clubs. Gymnasts participating in an NTC should remain connected to their home clubs, and SG will continue to strengthen collaboration and communication between NTC and club coaches throughout the gymnast's development journey.

Building Stronger Partnerships

The new framework places collaboration at the centre of the performance pathway.

SG recognises the significant role that club coaches play in identifying, developing and supporting gymnasts over many years. Through initiatives such as SGDP, SG aims to work alongside clubs and coaches to observe gymnast development, share feedback and provide appropriate development opportunities.

The NTC Policy also establishes clearer principles for communication and collaboration between NTCs and home clubs, supporting greater continuity as gymnasts move through different stages of the pathway.

Supporting the Whole Gymnast

Performance development extends beyond technical gymnastics training.

The PDP and NTC system promotes an integrated approach incorporating high-performance coaching, appropriate training environments, gymnast wellbeing, education, and multidisciplinary Performance Support.

Through collaboration with Singapore's wider high-performance sport system (spexSG, High Performance Sports Institute and Singapore Sports School), SG aims to ensure that appropriate expertise and support are available to help gymnasts develop safely and sustainably.

Building for the Future

The approval of the PDP Framework and NTC Policy represents an important step in SG's continued development of a transparent, collaborative and sustainable performance system.

The frameworks are intended to provide greater clarity while allowing SG's programmes to continue evolving as the needs of gymnasts, disciplines and the wider gymnastics community develop.

SG looks forward to working together with gymnasts, coaches, clubs, parents and performance partners to strengthen the pathway and create an environment where Singapore gymnasts can develop, thrive and pursue success on the international stage.

The PDP Framework and NTC Policy is available on the SG website.

PDP Framework: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:AP:3dcdcd0a-6ed3-42e8-87f3-a6c146b55a4e?viewer%21megaVerb=group-discover

NTC Policy: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:AP:3a54aca7-56d7-4964-ac94-ebf22bc10e1b