Attentional focus training program and soccer skills

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of an attentional focus training program (AFTP) on improvement in soccer ability of young male soccer players at two age levels. The subjects for the study (N=40) were volunteers recruited from a youth soccer league. The subjects were divided into two age groups (8 to 10, and I I to 13) and then randomly assigned to one of two subject groups : (a) control group (CG), and (b) experimental group (EG). Assignment to the CG or the EG was on a random basis by lot. Coaches' subjective assessment determined that the CG and EG were comparable in skill levels. The pre- and post-test procedure consisted of three soccer ability tests (throw-in, dribbling and place kick). The CG's program consisted of 24 sessions watching films of soccer games and videotape replays of their actual games. The EG's AFTP consisted of a 24-session program including relaxation, imagery, affirmations, meditation and concentration. Statistical significance was demonstrated by the EG on the soccer throw-in measure and the place kick measure, both beyond the 0.001 level. No statistically significant differences in soccer dribbling measure were noted.