How players exploit variability and regularity of game actions in female volleyball teams

RAMOS, Ana, COUTINHO, Patrícia, SILVA, Pedro, DAVIDS, Keith and MESQUITA, Isabel (2017). How players exploit variability and regularity of game actions in female volleyball teams. European Journal of Sport Science, 17 (4), 473-481.

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Official URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/174613...
Link to published version:: https://doi.org/10.1080/17461391.2016.1271459

Abstract

Variability analysis has been used to understand how competitive constraints shape different behaviours in team sports. In this study, we analysed and compared variability of tactical performance indices in players within complex I at two different competitive levels in volleyball. We also examined whether variability was influenced by set type and period. Eight matches from the 2012 Olympics competition and from the Portuguese national league in the 2014–2015 season were analysed (1496 rallies). Variability of setting conditions, attack zone, attack tempo and block opposition was assessed using Shannon entropy measures. Magnitude-based inferences were used to analyse the practical significance of compared values of selected variables. Results showed differences between elite and national teams for all variables, which were co-adapted to the competitive constraints of set type and set periods. Elite teams exploited system stability in setting conditions and block opposition, but greater unpredictability in zone and tempo of attack. These findings suggest that uncertainty in attacking actions was a key factor that could only be achieved with greater performance stability in other game actions. Data suggested how coaches could help setters develop the capacity to play at faster tempos, diversifying attack zones, especially at critical moments in competition.

Item Type: Article
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018: Centre for Sports Engineering Research
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1080/17461391.2016.1271459
Page Range: 473-481
Depositing User: Carmel House
Date Deposited: 19 Jan 2017 12:10
Last Modified: 18 Mar 2021 00:46
URI: https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/14764

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