This study evaluates the impact of the STAD-type cooperative learning model and the conventional model on football learning outcomes among Grade VIII students at Junior High School 2 Sijunjung, specifically considering students' confidence levels. The primary issue addressed is the low football learning outcomes linked to conventional teaching methods, which often result in reduced student engagement. The objectives of this research are clearly defined: to examine the interaction between the learning model and student confidence in relation to learning outcomes, to compare the effectiveness of the two models, and to investigate differences in learning outcomes between high and low confidence students within each model. Using a quasi-experimental method, the study employs qualitative descriptive analysis for measuring confidence and quantitative analysis for assessing football skills. A sample of 82 male students was divided into high and low confidence groups, each receiving instruction through either the STAD or conventional model. Data were collected via confidence questionnaires and football skill tests, then analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test. The findings indicate that the STAD-type cooperative learning model is generally more effective in enhancing football learning outcomes compared to the conventional model. Notably, there is a significant interaction between the learning model and confidence; students with low confidence utilizing the STAD model achieved better learning outcomes, whereas those with high confidence performed better under the conventional approach. This suggests that confidence plays a crucial role in learning outcomes, with lower confidence students benefiting from collaborative learning settings. In conclusion, the study highlights the overall effectiveness of the STAD-type cooperative learning model, especially for students with low confidence. It emphasizes the importance of tailoring teaching methods to align with students’ confidence levels to maximize learning outcomes. Future recommendations include exploring strategies to boost confidence among students, which could further enhance their engagement and performance in physical education.