In the study of expert and novice young soccer players, what primarily contributed to performance improvement?

Cognitive decision-making during the game plays a significant role in the performance improvement of both expert and novice young soccer players. As players advance from novice to more expert levels, they begin to develop a better understanding of the game, including situational awareness, pattern recognition, and the ability to anticipate opponent actions. This cognitive development allows players to make faster and more effective decisions on the field, leading to improved gameplay and performance.

In soccer, decision-making encompasses not just the tactical choices a player makes regarding when to pass, shoot, or dribble, but also their ability to read the game dynamics and adapt accordingly. This type of cognitive training enhances a player’s innate skills, making them more effective on the field.

While physical growth, skill execution, and coaching strategies are all important factors in overall development, the ability to think critically and make quick decisions under pressure is a hallmark of experienced athletes and significantly impacts gameplay, especially in a dynamic sport like soccer. This improved cognitive decision-making leads to more effective tactics and enhances the overall performance.