The relationship between tactical knowledge and game performance in invasion-type ball games

Abstract

    The purpose of this study was to clarify the relationship between knowledge and performance in invasion-type ball games. The relationship was addressed through a tactical knowledge test and a field performance test on tactical problems common to such games.
    A total of 154 college students took part in the study. Of those, 109 (mean age 20.3±1.3 years) were proficient in soccer, a typical invasion-type ball game. The other 45 participants were general college students (mean age 20.4±1.2 years) without any athletic club experience in high school or university. The following summarizes the results and observations:
(1) Regarding the tactical knowledge test, the average score of the soccer players was significantly higher than that of the general college students. This suggests that the players acquired tactical knowledge of invasion-type ball games through their sports experience.
(2) It also underlines an order of complexity regarding tactical problems in invasion-type ball games.
(3) The average score on the performance test among the soccer players was significantly higher than the average score of the general students. Thus, acquisition and structure of knowledge can be seen as factors in determining performance.
(4) Lastly, the results indicate a need for tactical training in the field.