Skilled Players Research Articles

Cultural Misbeliefs: A Fertile Ground at Service of Psychological Operations

This paper of ours further expounds on psyops and cultural misbeliefs-their complex interplay in how these deep-seated but very often cultural misbeliefs can be manipulated to have an influence upon perceptions and responses in the public. In psychological warfare, cultural misbelief has formed a two-edged sword wherein skilled players could use these in misleading the target groups in a direction that furthers the strategic aim. The present study has shown how rumors, especially those coinciding with deep-seated fears and prejudices can fuel acts of violence or justify negative behavior and has illustrated the huge impact which cultural background may have on individual behavior and social life. It also reflects upon the degree to which psychological operations have created public opinion and attempted to demoralize one's adversaries by using those cultural cleavages apt to awake social chaos and conflict and it also espouses critical thinking and education as imperatives for overcoming the aftermath of cultural misconceptions and propounds an inclusive approach toward attaining understanding and tolerance of the people within the community. It is when such misconceptions are identified and corrected that societies become resilient to such manipulative misinformation and create a united and peaceful atmosphere.

Designing tests for some motor abilities and predicting the level of performance skill for academic school football players aged (13-14) years

The study aims to design tests to measure some motor abilities in the study sample, to find standard grades and levels for some tests of motor abilities in the study sample, preparing equations to predict the level of performance skill of soccer players in terms of mobility tests in the research sample. The researcher used the descriptive approach, and the research community was selected from football academy players aged (13-14) years in Raparin. The research sample was selected intentionally, which included (260) players. So as to reach the results, the researcher used a set of statistical programs by using SPSS. It was concluded to find and determine the grades and standard levels modified for the research sample in the motor tests, determining an equation to predict the level of performance skill in terms of motor abilities. It is recommended that the prediction equation can be adopted as indicators through which the components of motor abilities are determined and the possibility of upgrading it according to the time period of the preparation stage to reach the level of competition.

THE IMPACT OF UTILIZING PENDULUM TRAINING IN ENHANCING SPECIFIC PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES AND FUNDAMENTAL SKILLS FOR YOUNG FOOTBALL PLAYERS

Football This game has taken a large part of the rest of the sports games as it occupies the first place in terms of practitioners (amateurs, professionals) and spectators, as well as the abundance of its skills and the diversity of its plans, so the interest in it was exceptional in terms of its importance on the one hand and because it is the game that brings pleasure and joy to the hearts of its followers and practitioners on the other hand and has received huge views whether (inside or outside the stadium), it is natural that the player, coach or fan will be under great psychological pressure when compared to other sports games. Preparing a training program using the pendulum training method to develop some physical qualities and basic skills for youth football players. Knowing the effect of the pendulum training method in developing some physical qualities and basic skills for youth football players. The researchers used the experimental method (experimental design for two groups, the first control and the second experimental) using pre- and post-measurement, and the research community identified the young players in the Al-Jawhara Sports Club for football for the season) 2022-2023 (and the research sample was selected by simple random method, amounting to (20) players, and then they were divided into two control groups containing) 10) players and an experimental group containing (10) players as well. The most important conclusions were The emergence of a clear development of the control and experimental groups in the physical qualities and basic skills of young football players. There is an advantage in the development of the physical qualities and basic skills of young football players in favor of the experimental group that used the pendulum training method. The use of any training method may positively affect the physical qualities and basic skills of young football players.

Influence of Motor Imagery Modality on First-Serve Performance in Tennis Players.

Motor imagery (MI) is frequently used in tennis players. This pilot study aimed to assess whether the MI modality and preference of skilled tennis players could influence their service performance when using MI before serving first balls. Twenty expert players (Mage = 18.6years) completed the movement imagery questionnaire (third version) to assess their MI modality scores (internal visual, external visual, and kinesthetic) and their MI preference. Participants completed 4 experimental counterbalanced sessions spread over 4weeks, each including the completion of 20 first-serve balls in match condition. The sessions included a control condition (i.e.,only physical practice trials) and three MI conditions during which the players had to mentally imagine themselves performing a serve according to one of the imagery modalities, either internal visual, external visual, or kinesthetic, before serving. The percentage of success, the speed of the service balls (measured by a tablet with SWING VISION and a radar gun), and an efficiency score were recorded and then evaluated by experts and served as performance indicators and dependent variables. The results of this study showed that players benefited from MI before serving and that almost a third of the participants achieved a higher percentage of success and efficiency scores when using their preferred MI modality. These results lead us, in an applied way, to suggest to skilled tennis players to determine their MI preference and to have recourse to the mental simulation of a successful serve before serving the first balls in match condition.

How does prolonged tennis playing affect lower limb muscles' activity during first and second tennis serves?

We examined the effect of prolonged tennis playing on lower limb muscles' activity during the execution of first and second tennis serves. Ten male competitive tennis players executed five first and second serves before (pretest) and after (posttest) a 3-h tennis match. Surface electromyographic (EMG) activity of four lower limb muscles (vastus lateralis, rectus femoris, gastrocnemius lateralis, and soleus muscles) on each leg was recorded along with maximum ball velocity measured by a radar gun and peak vertical forces recorded by a force platform. For the vastus lateralis, gastrocnemius lateralis, and soleus muscles of the left leg as well as the vastus lateralis muscle of the right leg, EMG amplitude decreased from pre- to posttests (p≤0.033). These reductions in the EMG signal were generally more pronounced in the first serve (i.e., ranging from -10% to -40%) compared to the second serve (0% to -25%). Maximum ball velocity for both first (159±12 vs. 154±12km/h) and second (126±20 vs. 125±15km/h) serves remained unchanged from pre- to posttests (p=0.638) Similarly, peak vertical forces did not differ between pretest and posttest for both first (1.78±0.30 vs. 1.72±0.29 body weight) and second (1.62±0.25 vs. 1.75±0.23 body weight) serves (p=0.730). In conclusion, a 3-h tennis match led to decreased activation levels in various leg muscles during serves, particularly in first serves compared to second serves. Despite consistent maximum ball velocity and peak vertical forces, these reductions in EMG signals suggest that skilled tennis players may adopt compensatory strategies after prolonged play.

Utilization of Technology in MSME Marketing Strategy Through Digital Media

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) increasingly use digital marketing to increase visibility, competitiveness, and turnover. The methods used in this community service include lectures, question and answer, and promotional simulations with social media. This program aims to train MSMEs in using digital technology for marketing. The discussion in this article is the application of digital marketing strategies and it is hoped that this training will have an impact on the skills of MSMEs players so they can carry promotions effectively and efficiently.

A Comparative Study Using an Analytical Program for the Effectiveness of the Performance of the Sending and Receiving Skills of Female Premier League Volleyball Players

ارتأت الباحثتان أجراء دراسة مقارنة لمستوى فاعلية الاداء لمهارتي الارسال واستقبال الارسال للاعبات الأندية المشاركة في الدوري العراقي للممتاز بالكرة الطائرة للنساء باستخدام برنامج تحليلي لغرض الكشف عن نقاط القوة والضعف ومن خلال متابعة الباحثتان لمباريات الدوري العراقي الممتاز بالكرة الطائرة لفئة المتقدمات وأيضا كون احدى الباحثتان لاعبة في أحد اندية الدوري العراقي الممتاز بالكرة الطائرة وجدتا ان هناك ضعف في مستوى فاعلية الاداء لبعض المهارات الفنية وهي مهارتي الارسال واستقبال الارسال حيث هنالك تفاوت بين نادي واخر وكذلك بين لاعبة وأخرى واستخدمت الباحثتان المنهج الوصفي بأسلوب الدراسة المقارنة والتحليلية لملائمته لمشكلة البحث في حين حددت الباحثتان مجتمع البحث بالفرق المشاركة في الدوري العراقي الممتاز بالكرة الطائرة للموسم الرياضي 2021-2022 وعددها 10 اندية في حين اختيرت عينة البحث من الفرق المتاهلة الى الدور النصف النهائي في الدوري العراقي الممتاز بالكرة الطائرة للسيدات للموسم الرياضية 2021-2022 حيث بلغ عدد الأندية المتأهلة (4) وهي (اكاد عينكاوة، افروديت، سنحاريب، قرقوش) وبهذا بلغت النسبة المئوية لعينة البحث 40 % أذ تم تحليل المباريات بأستخدام البرنامج الاحصائي الاكثر شهرة عالمياً Data volley واستنتجت الباحثتان ظهور فروق معنوية في مستوى فاعلية الأداء المهاري لمهارة الارسال لصالح اندية (افروديت، قرقوش، اكاد عينكاوة) وعدم ظهور فروق معنوية في مستوى فاعلية الأداء لمهارة الارسال لنادي سنحاريب وظهور فروق معنوية في مستوى فاعلية الأداء المهاري لمهارة استقبال الارسال لصالح اندية (قرقوش، افروديت، سنحاريب) وعدم ظهور فروق معنوية في مستوى فاعلية الأداء استقبال الارسال لنادي اكاد عينكاوة. واوصت الباحثتان ب ضرورة اعتماد مبدأ التقويم الموضوعي في كل مرحلة من مراحل التدريب المختلفة وفي مرحلة المنافسات بانتقاء اختبارات مقننة وبرامج تحليلية للمهارات الهجومية لمتابعة فاعلية الأداء المهاري ومعالجة تذبذبها في الأوقات المناسبة والتأكيد على تنمية القابليات الخططية لترابطها الوثيق مع القابليات البدنية والمهارية . وهذا ما يحقق احد اهداف التنمية المستدامة للامم المتحدة في العراق (التعليم الجيد).

The Effectiveness of Point-of-View Video Modeling in Improving Symbolic Play Skills of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

The Effectiveness of Point-of-View Video Modeling in Improving Symbolic Play Skills of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Integration of cognitive-motor dual-task training in physical sessions of highly-skilled basketball players

ABSTRACT We investigated the effects of a cognitive-motor dual-task training (CMDT) integrated into a physical training circuit. Specific tests on sprint, agility, and cognitive processes associated with anticipatory event-related potential (ERP) components and behavioural performance during a cognitive discrimination response task (DRT) were evaluated before and after the intervention. Thirty skilled basketball players were recruited and divided into an experimental group executing the “physical CMDT” and a control group performing standard physical training. The CMDT session was performed by four athletes simultaneously who executed different circuits. One circuit was the CMDT, implemented with interactive devices thus engaging strong motor control, preparedness, and quick decision-making during task performance. Results on physical performance showed that only the experimental group improved in completion time on sprint (5.83%) and agility (3.55%) tests. At the brain level, we found that in the DRT the motor anticipation increased by over 50%, and the response time became 10% faster. Instead, regarding cognitive preparation, both protocols were equally effective and response accuracy parallelly increased in the post-test. In conclusion, the proposed “physical CMDT” integrated into a group session, can improve sprint and agility and the neural correlate of this effect is the increase of motor preparation in the premotor cortex in only five weeks.

The Effect of a Training Programme (Skill-Psychological) on the Psychological Fitness and Performance of some Offensive skills of Volleyball Players

Volleyball is a competitive sport activity characterized by a direct struggle between two teams: Volleyball is one of the competitive sports activities that are characterized by direct struggle between two teams, as it has become a lot of practice today and occupies a good position as it is at a high and beautiful level of performance, so there is a desire for those who practice it to appear integrated performance as it is a combination of many different skills, whether offensive or defensive. Hence the importance of the research lies in knowing the extent of the effect of a training programme (skill - psychological) on psychological fitness and performance of some offensive skills in volleyball players. The issue lies in the fact that the player faces difficulties and psychological pressures during the match and his inability to regulate and control his emotions and greatly affect his performance, so the researcher decided to study the effect of a training programme (skill-psychological) on the psychological fitness and performance of some offensive skills in volleyball players. The aim is to find out the effect of a training programme on psychological fitness and performance of some offensive skills. It is hypothesized that there are statistically significant differences between the results of the pre and post tests in psychological fitness and the performance of some offensive skills in the sample. The experimental approach was used. The sample was volleyball players. It used the appropriate methods, tools and devices for research and also used the scale and tests and conducted pre and post tests and the exploratory and main experiment and the number of units was 16 units, two units per week, and concluded that the training exercises (skill - psychological) have a clear impact on the psychological fitness of players.

Ecological-Dynamic Approach vs. Traditional Prescriptive Approach in Improving Technical Skills of Young Soccer Players.

Background: This study contributes to expanding the existing literature on learning technical skills in youth soccer by comparing the effectiveness of different training approaches in the development of passing skills. The ecological-dynamic approach, which emphasizes the continuous and adaptive interaction between the athlete and the environment, is analyzed in comparison to the traditional prescriptive approach, which relies on predefined techniques and exercises. The aim of the study is to determine which of the two approaches is more effective in improving the performance of young soccer players. Methods: Thirty players (age 12 ± 1.2 years) were randomly assigned to two groups: the ecological-dynamic group (ECG) and a control group (CON). Both groups underwent an eight-week training program with equal sessions. The ECG group's training focused on adjusting constraints like the learning environment, game rules, and visual restrictions to boost adaptability and problem-solving skills. The CON group followed a traditional prescriptive approach with specific instructions, goal setting, immediate feedback, and structured exercise progression. Passing abilities were evaluated before and after the program using the Loughborough Soccer Passing Test, with a retention test administered five weeks later. Descriptive statistics, including mean values and percentage improvements, were used. A repeated measures ANOVA compared differences between the groups. Results: The analysis revealed a significant Occasion × Group interaction for all performance variables, indicating that the ECG group experienced greater improvements than the CON group. Specifically, the ECG group showed significant reductions in Trial Time (p = 0.001, ηp2 = 0.6), Penalty Time (p = 0.016, ηp2 = 0.4), and Overall Performance (p = 0.011, ηp2 = 0.8) from pre-test to post-test. However, these improvements did not persist into the retention test (p = 0.131, p = 0.792, and p = 0.192, respectively). The CON group also improved significantly in Trial Time (p = 0.003), Penalty Time (p = 0.002), and Overall Performance (p = 0.001) from pre-test to post-test, but with smaller effect sizes and no sustained gains at retention. Conclusions: The ecological-dynamic approach (EDG) has proven to be more effective in enhancing passing skills compared to the traditional prescriptive approach (CON). Although both methods led to performance improvements, the EDG group achieved more significant progress.

The impact of performance degree on players: Exploring player enjoyment and engagement in the dynamic of game process

This study explores the intricate dynamics between player performance, reward frequency, and unpredictability in gaming experiences within the context of game refinement theory. It introduces three key concepts: m (inherent game risk), k (player skill level), and N (reward frequency concerning reinforcement learning), and investigates how their interplay influences player engagement and enjoyment. The research aims to contribute theoretical advancements in game design, user experience, and behavioral psychology by employing the motion-in-mind model. The findings reveal that highly skilled players (lower k) derive greater enjoyment due to their ability to navigate uncertainties efficiently, reaching an equilibrium where the measure of game refinement (GR) equals the measure of unpredictability (AD). The study examines how players transition from k=3 (average skill) to k=2 (high skill), leading to a heightened gaming perception akin to perfect players. The research uncovers relationships between player skill (k), game risk (m), and reward frequency (N). Furthermore, we extend previous research by observing the ratio of GR and AD values (denoted as ϕ) to explore the balance between entertainment and surprise in different game types, providing valuable perspectives for practitioners and academicians.

The Influence of Small Sided Games Training Method: Passing Amateur Athletes Football Players

Improving the basic skills of amateur athletes is a big task for a coach, one of which is the game of football itself. This study aims to determine the effect of small sided games training on the passing skills of football players. This study is a type of experimental research of one group pretest-posttest design with 16 treatments. The population in this study is 40 people, then the 40 population is not all used, only 24 athletes meet the criteria as subjects in this study. The instruments in this study are tests, observations, interviews, and documentation. The validity of the test in this study was 0.812 and the reliability was 0.879. The data analysis techniques of this study use prerequisite tests including normality tests, homogeneity tests, and t-test or t-est. The results of this study prove that small sided games-based training has a significant impact on the accuracy of passing in football games. This is proven by the results of data analysis in this study with a percentage of 0.000 < 0.05, thus the hypothesis in the study is proven to have an influence on Yogyakarta State University football athletes. Then it was strengthened by the statistical results of the Mann Whitney test with asymp values. Sig. (2-tailed) by 0.750 > 0.05. So based on these results, it can be concluded that the Small Sided Games Training Method has a significant impact on the results of passing skills in amateur athletes of the Student Activity Unit of Yogyakarta State University.

Physical performance and technical specific skills of women football players with cerebral palsy

This study aimed to determine the physical performance profile (ability to change direction, vertical and horizontal jump, sprint ability, and dribbling-specific skills) of the first women football players with cerebral palsy (CP) who participated in an international CP football competition, accounting for their sport classes. We also examined the relationships between the different physical performance variables. Forty-five female players with CP (24.9 ± 7.5 years) were categorised into three sport classes based on their impairment severity: 19 were FT1 (severe impairments); 21 FT2; and 5 FT3 (mild impairments). Various physical performance tests were conducted, including the 505 change of direction test; vertical and horizontal jumps; 10 m sprint test; and the dribbling speed test. Significant correlations were observed between the change of direction ability, sprint (r = 0.89; p < 0.01), and dribbling tests (r = 0.71; p < 0.01), as well as between horizontal jump and sprint time (r = − 0.74; p < 0.01). FT1 players demonstrated poorer performance compared to FT3 in the 505 test and standing broad jump (p < 0.05; dg = −1.79 and 1.22 respectively), but also lower vertical jump heights (p < 0.05; dg = −0.91 to −1.57) and increased time required for sprint (p < 0.05; dg = 0.88 to 1.16) and dribbling tests (p < 0.05; dg = 0.85 to 1.44) compared to both FT2 and FT3 players. These findings offer valuable insights into the physical performance characteristics of female footballers with CP, which can guide training and sport enhancement programs for this unique para-sport population.

Pendampingan Legalitas Usaha NIB (Nomor Izin Berusaha) dan Sertifikat Halal Bagi Pelaku UMKM di Kelurahan Gentong

This article discusses the importance of business legality, especially in obtaining Business Identification Numbers (NIB) and Halal Certificates for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Gentong Village, Pasuruan. Gentong District has many MSMEs that play an important role in the local economy, but face challenges in understanding and managing business legality, which results in limited access to wider markets. This article highlights the mentoring program carried out using the Service Learning method, which involves direct interaction between academics, students and MSME actors. This program aims to increase the understanding and skills of MSME players in managing NIB and Halal Certificates, as well as overcoming bureaucratic obstacles which often become obstacles in managing business legality. Through this approach, MSME players are expected to be able to increase the competitiveness and sustainability of their businesses. This article also examines relevant theories, such as Legitimacy Theory, Social Capital Theory, and Market Access Theory, which support the importance of business legality in building reputation, expanding markets, and reducing legal risks. The results of this mentoring program show that with adequate business legality, MSMEs in Gentong Village are able to expand business networks, increase credibility, and access larger market opportunities, both at the local and international levels. Thus, business legality is not only an administrative fulfillment, but also an important business strategy for the growth and sustainability of MSME businesses amidst increasingly tight market competition.

Improving Digital Marketing Skills of MSMEs in Legok Village through a Community Service Program

There are several problems in marketing the products of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in this digital era. Problems such as limited access to technology and lack of knowledge and expertise in managing digital platforms or tools. To overcome these problems, Community Service (PKM) activities are carried out. This PKM is focused on improving marketing skills for MSME players in Legok Village, Tangerang, Banten by Universitas Multimedia Nusantara (UMN). Specifically, this solution is in the form of training with the theme of digital marketing management, market trend analysis, customer preferences, and strategies to increase customer interaction on e-commerce platforms and social media. The materials in this PKM activity are market trend analysis and the use of digital marketing tools where there are 19 participants from different MSME players. The results of this training showed that 100% of participants stated that the training delivered provided new insights or ideas to improve their business, especially in terms of marketing management. Thus, MSMEs in Legok Village are expected to be able to compete better in the digital market, which in turn can encourage local and national economic growth.

Dynamic difficulty adjustment using deep reinforcement learning: A review

With the evolution of the gaming industry, there is an increasing demand for games that offer immersive experiences beyond basic gratification. Traditional games with fixed difficulty levels often fail to cater to the diverse preferences and skills of players. To address these needs, dynamic difficulty adjustment (DDA) has emerged as a crucial element in game design. This review explores the application of Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) in achieving DDA, contrasting it with traditional methods. By examining various DRL algorithms and their effectiveness, as well as evaluating traditional models, this review identifies the potential of DRL in enhancing player experiences and outlines existing challenges. It also highlights future research directions, including the integration of DRL with Flow Theory and innovative evaluation methods. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of how DRL can advance game design and improve player satisfaction.

Designing tests for some physical abilities and predicting the level of performance skill for academic school football players at the ages of (13-14) years

The study aims to design tests to measure some physical abilities in the study sample, to find standard grades and levels for some tests of physical abilities in the study sample, preparing equations to predict the level of performance skill of soccer players in terms of mobility tests in the research sample. The researcher used the descriptive approach, and the research community was selected from football academy players with ages (13-14) years in Raparin. The research sample was selected intentionally, which included (260) players. So as to reach the results, the researcher used a set of statistical programs by using SPSS. It was concluded to find and determine the grades and standard levels modified for the research sample in the physical tests. It is concluded that these tests can be accepted as an evaluation method and indicator to show the player's physical and skillful condition, and to define an equation to predict the level of performance skill in terms of physical abilities.

The influence of age, sex and player position on skill demands in junior Australian football

ABSTRACT This study aimed to investigate how ecological constraints influence individual player skill demands in community-level junior Australian Football (AF). Footage from 68 junior AF games, incorporating 1874 unique players, were analysed for individual skill demands such as disposals, kicks, handballs, tackles, marks, and shots at goal per player per game. Multiple linear mixed effect models were created for each skill, using player as a random effect. The impact of age, relative area per player (RAPP), number of players on the team, quarters in midfield, and weather on skill demands was assessed in U9-U14 boys. Finally, the influence of sex on the same skills was explored in U11-U14 boys and girls. Younger players were found to have fewer disposals and handballs, but more tackles, per player than older players (all p < 0.05). Further, more quarters in the midfield increased all skill demands (all p < 0.001). Finally, girls had fewer disposals and marks, but more tackles, per player than boys (all p < 0.05). Overall, age, sex, and position significantly impacted players’ exposure to skills in junior AF. Game designers should consider methods to improve skill involvement and reduce tackling exposure early in the junior pathway, with further emphasis on the girls’ game.

Effects of Different Exercise Training on Physical Fitness and Technical Skills in Handball Players. A Systematic Review.

Akbar, S, Kim Geok, S, Bashir, M, Jazaily Bin Mohd, NN, Luo, S, and He, S. Effects of different exercise training on physical fitness and technical skills in handball players. A systematic review. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2024-This review aimed to assess the effects of exercise training on handball players' performance. A thorough search was conducted in 5 online databases (ProQuest, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost (SPORTDiscus), as well as on Google Scholar and other gray literature references starting on April 11, 2022. The methodological quality of the included research was evaluated using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. This systematic review includes 16 studies. Eight studies received "excellent" ratings (≥6 points), 5 received "good" ratings (5 points), and 3 received "moderate" ratings (4 points). The findings showed that the most frequently examined performance factors in exercise training intervention strategies with handball players were balance (n = 5), agility (n = 8), speed (n = 9), and jumping performance (n = 10). Muscular strength (n = 4), shooting and dribbling skill (n = 3), and muscular endurance (n = 4) were the second most frequently investigated performance factors. Regarding speed and agility, exercise training considerably improved the physical fitness of handball players. However, evidence related to muscular strength, shooting ability, and dribbling skills was limited. To achieve the optimum standard, handball players must have strong physical and physiological qualities. Meanwhile, no evidence was found related to the impacts of exercise training on power, endurance, flexibility, body composition, cardiovascular fitness, and cardiorespiratory fitness. Regarding limitations, there is a need for more research with solid evidence to determine the impacts of exercise training interventions on athletes' performance in handball.