Abstract
The objective of this study was to compose an objective and detailed notational analysis system for 3 vs. 2 + GK small-sided soccer games, in which three roles are examined: attacker with ball, attacker without ball and defender. The actions and the outcome of the actions were registered for each player and in each role. Players earn points for each action and outcome according to an a priori determined scheme. Performance scores for each role are calculated as the average number of points a participant earns per trial. This notation system was tested on 19 highly talented female soccer players and validity and reliability of the system were determined. In addition, practical applications were discussed and the most important items of the notation system were determined and using only these items, a simplified notation system was proposed. The notation system has high ecological validity and can discriminate the high and low categorized players, but further development is necessary to increase the reliability of the system.
Highlights
Assessing tactical skills of team sport players is challenging but interesting for both sport practice and science
An objective method to assess tactical skills of team sport players on the field would be valuable for research on expertise and decision making
A total of 19 highly talented female soccer players participated in this study, with a mean age of 16.3 years (SD 1⁄4 1.1) and a mean soccer experience of 9.9 years (SD 1⁄4 2.3)
Summary
Assessing tactical skills of team sport players is challenging but interesting for both sport practice and science. Trainers, coaches and scouts want an easy tool to determine the quality of performance, identify strengths and weaknesses and follow the developments of players. An objective method to assess tactical skills of team sport players on the field would be valuable for research on expertise and decision making. The validity and reliability of this test was not reported. Better ecological validity would be acquired using film clips as argued by Helsen and Pauwels.[2] They were among the first who developed a film-based decision-making test that has been used frequently ever since.[3,4,5,6]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
