There are two pre-stages in SFL’s LTD framework: awareness & first involvement.

People need to be aware of an activity in order to take part in it, so they need to know that it exists, & where to find it.

Once someone knows about a sport or activity & decides they want to try it out, their first experience with that activity becomes critically important. A positive first involvement is likely to bring them back to continue, & a negative experience makes their return far less likely. Organizations should carefully plan the first experience of new participants to ensure:

• there are no barriers to participation—especially for persons with a disability & those from visible & invisible minorities
• that new participants feel included, knowing they will be welcomed back the next time
• that new participants have the opportunity to get to know current participants
• that it is affordable for participants to get & stay involved
• that there is appropriate facilities & equipment
• the leader of the program has the appropriate skills to adapt to the participant’s needs.

Organizations need to train coaches & develop programs that provide suitable orientation for any & all prospective participants, helping them to feel confident, comfortable & safe in their surroundings, & welcome among peers & training personnel.