Title
Perceptual And Cognitive Skill Development In Soccer: The Multidimensional Nature Of Expert Performance
Keywords
Anticipation; Memory recall; Situational probabilities; Visual function
Abstract
This study examined the relative contribution of visual, perceptual, and cognitive skills to the development of expertise in soccer. Elite and sub-elite players, ranging in age from 9 to 17 years, were assessed using a multidimensional battery of tests. Four aspects of visual function were measured: static and dynamic visual acuity; stereoscopic depth sensitivity; and peripheral awareness. Perceptual and cognitive skills were assessed via the use of situational probabilities, as well as tests of anticipation and memory recall. Stepwise discriminant analyses revealed that the tests of visual function did not consistently discriminate between skill groups at any age. Tests of anticipatory performance and use of situational probabilities were the best in discriminating across skill groups. Memory recall of structured patterns of play was most predictive of age. As early as age 9, elite soccer players demonstrated superior perceptual and cognitive skills when compared to their sub-elite counterparts. Implications for training perceptual and cognitive skill in sport are discussed.
Publication Date
1-1-2003
Publication Title
Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology
Volume
25
Issue
1
Number of Pages
93-111
Document Type
Article
Personal Identifier
scopus
DOI Link
https://doi.org/10.1123/jsep.25.1.93
Copyright Status
Unknown
Socpus ID
0041670868 (Scopus)
Source API URL
https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/0041670868
STARS Citation
Ward, Paul and Mark Williams, A., "Perceptual And Cognitive Skill Development In Soccer: The Multidimensional Nature Of Expert Performance" (2003). Scopus Export 2000s. 2149.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/scopus2000/2149