Journal of College of Physical Education

The Effect of Instructional Units Based on the Panorama Strategy on Learning the Futsal Shooting Skill among Students

Qusay Ali Ahmed, Prof. Dr. Abdulrahman Nasser Rashid — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The research problem stemmed from the need to introduce an instructional approach based on educational units designed according to the Panorama Strategy and tailored to the students’ age group to facilitate learning the shooting skill in futsal. The study aimed to develop instructional units based on the Panorama Strategy for learning the futsal shooting skill and to identify differences in post-test performance between the experimental and control groups. The researchers employed the experimental method using a two-equivalent-group design, consisting of an experimental group and a control group, with pre-tests and post-tests. The research population comprised 81 second-year students at Al-Talaqqi Intermediate School for Boys, distributed across three classes (A, B, and C). A random sample of 40 students was selected and divided equally into two groups of 20 students each. The instructional program consisted of eight instructional units implemented over two weeks, with both groups completing two instructional units per week, each lasting 40 minutes. The findings indicated that the instructional units based on the Panorama Strategy contributed positively and effectively to learning and developing the futsal shooting skill among students in the experimental group, whose performance surpassed that of the control group, which followed the teacher’s conventional instructional approach. The researchers recommended incorporating instructional units based on the Panorama Strategy into teaching practices because of their effectiveness and emphasized the importance of gradual progression when designing and implementing exercises to ensure their suitability for the students’ age group.

Mental Workload in Relation to the Neurotransmitter Serotonin and Its Role in the Cognitive Level of Iraqi Premier League Volleyball Referees

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to identify the levels of mental workload in relation to the neurotransmitter serotonin, cognitive level, decision-making, and refereeing performance among international volleyball referees officiating in the Iraqi Premier League for clubs, considering differences in match set scores. It also sought to examine the role of mental workload in relation to the neurotransmitter serotonin in the cognitive level of international volleyball referees in the Iraqi Premier League for clubs across matches with different set scores by investigating the relationships between these variables and their contribution. The research population comprised first-class volleyball referees officiating in the Iraqi Premier League for the 2024–2025 season, totaling 20 referees. A purposive sample of 15 referees was selected based on matches played during the league’s three tournament rounds and the different match set scores. The sample included five referees for each of the following match outcomes: 3–0, 3–1, and 3–2. The remaining five referees were involved in pilot experiments conducted by the researchers. The researchers employed a descriptive method using correlational analysis and causal-comparative approaches, as appropriate to the nature of the research problem. Following data analysis, the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to obtain the results. The findings indicated that the participating referees officiating in the Iraqi Premier League for volleyball demonstrated certain levels of mental workload in relation to the neurotransmitter serotonin and cognitive level across matches with different set scores.

The Effect of Instructional Aids Based on Reinforced Repetition on Knowledge Acquisition of Selected Offensive Skills in Basketball

Handreen Adnan Ali, Lecturer, Prof. Dr. Sherwan Salih Khidr — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to develop a knowledge achievement test for selected offensive skills in basketball among second-year students at the Colleges of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Garmian and the University of Sulaimani, and to investigate the effect of instructional aids based on reinforced repetition on knowledge acquisition of these skills. The researchers employed the experimental method because it was appropriate to the research problem, while the descriptive method was used to develop the knowledge achievement test. The research population was selected purposively and comprised students from the Colleges of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Garmian and the University of Sulaimani. The test-construction sample consisted of 102 students, the application sample comprised 20 students divided into experimental and control groups, and a further 10 students participated in the pilot study. The test was initially designed to contain 52 items. The necessary statistical procedures were conducted, and the items were reviewed linguistically and scientifically, resulting in a final version comprising 38 items. The findings indicated that the instructional aids based on reinforced repetition had a positive effect on knowledge acquisition of selected offensive skills in basketball. The experimental group demonstrated a clear and substantial improvement in knowledge achievement compared with the control group.

An Assessment of Barriers to Scientific Productivity among Faculty Members in Colleges and Departments of Physical Education and Sports Sciences According to Gender and Academic Title

Assist. Lect. Zena Abdul Kareem Qasim — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The present study aimed to develop a scale to assess barriers to scientific productivity among faculty members in the Colleges and Departments of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Mosul, determine the level of these barriers, and identify statistically significant differences in their levels according to gender (male and female) and academic title (Professor, Assistant Professor, Lecturer, and Assistant Lecturer). The researcher employed a descriptive survey method, which was considered appropriate to the nature of the study. The total research sample comprised 156 faculty members. To achieve the study objectives, the researcher developed a scale for assessing barriers to scientific productivity using a sample of 110 male and female faculty members, while the application sample consisted of 46 participants. The scale’s face validity and reliability were established. The statistical analyses included the arithmetic mean, standard deviation, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, the Spearman–Brown formula, percentages, the independent-samples t-test, and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The findings confirmed the suitability of the scale for assessing barriers to scientific productivity among faculty members in the Colleges and Departments of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Mosul. The results also indicated that faculty members experienced a high level of barriers to scientific productivity.

The Effect of the Deliberate Practice Approach Based on Self-Regulation on Learning the Jump Shot Skill in Handball among Students

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sameer Sabri Hassan — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to investigate the effect of the deliberate practice approach based on self-regulation on learning the jump shot skill in handball among students. This approach seeks to enhance skill acquisition by fostering learner autonomy, improving motor balance, and incorporating modern instructional technologies, such as interactive video, to facilitate a better understanding and execution of the skill. It emphasizes individual development and goal-oriented practice, encouraging learners to set specific objectives and plan the steps necessary to achieve them, thereby promoting skill comprehension and mastery. Deliberate practice also contributes to the development of balance, which is essential for maintaining body stability against opponents’ forces during the jump shot and improving shooting accuracy. Furthermore, the use of interactive video enables players to observe correct performance models, identify errors, and make the necessary corrections. The approach also involves establishing clear performance objectives, including shooting angle, distance, and execution time, to direct training efforts toward measurable improvements. The researcher adopted an experimental method appropriate to the nature of the research problem, employing an experimental group and a control group. The sample consisted of 32 students from the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Diyala. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings indicated that improved mastery of the jump shot contributed to the development of students’ overall skill performance. The results also suggested improvements in shooting accuracy and effectiveness, with higher shooting success rates when the shooting distance was reduced or the shooting angle was increased. Moreover, the approach helped enhance players’ confidence in their ability to perform under pressure. In conclusion, integrating deliberate practice with self-regulation combines systematic instructional guidance with learner autonomy in managing the learning process, making it a promising approach to developing complex motor skills, particularly the jump shot in handball.

The Effect of the Deliberate Practice Approach Based on Self-Regulation on Learning the Jump Shot Skill in Handball among Students

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sameer Sabri Hassan — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The Effect of Velocity-Based Training (VBT) on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Levels, Explosive Power, and Spike Accuracy in Young Volleyball Players

Lect. Hassanein Basim Qasim (Ph.D) — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The significance of this study lies in the development of a training program based on the Velocity-Based Training (VBT) method, which the researcher expects to influence brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, explosive power, and spike accuracy in young volleyball players. The researcher believes that this study may provide practical recommendations for coaches and researchers, contributing to the development of more effective training programs for volleyball players. Accordingly, the researcher undertook this investigation in the interest of advancing Iraqi sport. The research problem stems from the fact that, despite the continuous development of sports training methods, prevailing volleyball training programs still focus primarily on weights, the number of repetitions, or a percentage of the one-repetition maximum, without considering actual movement velocity as a direct criterion for regulating training loads. This may lead to variations in training responses among players and make it difficult to adjust the training load to each player's condition at the time of performance. Furthermore, although physiological research has demonstrated that physical activity can influence the levels of neurotrophic proteins, which serve as indicators of neuroplasticity and neuromuscular adaptation, the scientific literature indicates a limited number of applied studies examining the relationship between velocity-based training and changes in these proteins among volleyball players, as well as the potential implications for skill accuracy. In light of these considerations, the research problem can be defined as the need to investigate the effects of Velocity-Based Training (VBT) on changes in the physiological marker BDNF and the associated effects on explosive power and spike accuracy in young volleyball players.

The Role of Administrative Modernity in the Creative Behavior of School Principals from the Perspective of Physical Education Teachers

Lect. Atheer Abdul-Sadah Hussein (Ph.D) — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The importance of this study stems from the need for primary school principals to adopt administrative modernity within educational institutions in response to rapid developments and scientific and technological advancements. Administrative modernity equips principals with the skills necessary to address administrative challenges and improve management practices, thereby fostering a work environment conducive to creative behavior. This can be achieved by generating innovative and continually evolving ideas and solutions that facilitate adaptation to societal changes, which has become an essential requirement for educational institutions seeking to achieve their objectives, attain excellence, and promote continuous improvement. Accordingly, this study sought to investigate the role of administrative modernity in the creative behavior of primary school principals from the perspective of physical education teachers. The research problem was formulated around the following question: What role does administrative modernity play in the creative behavior of primary school principals from the perspective of physical education teachers? The study aimed to develop two measurement scales to assess administrative modernity and creative behavior among primary school principals from the perspective of physical education teachers. The third chapter presented the research methodology and field procedures, including the development of the two scales, their evaluation by a panel of experts and specialists, and the statistical analysis of the collected data. The fourth chapter presented, analyzed, and discussed the findings obtained from the two scales using the statistical methods applied in the study. The principal conclusion, presented in the fifth chapter, was that the adoption of administrative modernity played a substantial and positive role in fostering creative behavior among school principals and improving their performance. The findings further indicated that greater attention to administrative modernity was associated with higher levels of creative behavior, as evidenced by a statistically significant correlation between the two variables. The study recommended that the selection of primary school principals in educational institutions should take into account the requirements of administrative modernity to ensure that school leadership keeps pace with ongoing developments and rapidly evolving technologies.

The Effect of Specialized Exercises Using the BlazePod Device on Developing Specific Performance Endurance in Selected Offensive Skills among Basketball Players Aged 16–18 Years

Lect. Sdeer Mohammed Suleiman — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to bridge the gap between traditional training methods and the demands of competitive match play by employing modern technology, namely the BlazePod device, to integrate physical endurance with technical skill execution and perceptual-cognitive demands. The ultimate objective was to prepare young basketball players to sustain high-level performance under competitive pressure. The study adopted a systematic scientific approach, beginning with the selection of an appropriate sample, followed by the implementation of an advanced training tool (BlazePod), and the use of a standardized test specifically designed to measure the dependent variable, namely specific performance endurance. These methodological procedures were intended to enhance the reliability and scientific rigor of the findings. The results of the statistical analyses indicated that six weeks of specialized BlazePod-based exercises were effective in achieving the primary objective of the study, namely improving specific performance endurance in offensive skills among young basketball players, with greater effectiveness than traditional training methods. The study thus provided practical support for its hypothesis, demonstrating that integrating modern technology, particularly the BlazePod device, into basketball training offers an effective means of addressing the disconnect between physical conditioning and technical skill development. This integrated approach can help prepare players to maintain a high level of offensive performance, characterized by technical proficiency and speed, even under fatigue and the demands of competitive match play.

The Effect of Integrating Motor and Cognitive Learning on the Development of Educational Programs for Chess among Physical Education Students

Lect. Hassanein Abdul-Razzaq Jawad (Ph.D) — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to develop an innovative educational program for chess based on the integration of motor and cognitive learning, with the objective of enhancing the cognitive abilities and technical skills of students at the College of Physical Education, University of Babylon. An experimental research design was employed, involving a sample of 46 male and female students who were randomly assigned to an experimental group (18 students), a control group (18 students), and a pilot group (10 students). The post-test results revealed statistically significant improvements in the experimental group in strategic thinking, working memory, and decision-making speed, as well as in performance accuracy, response speed, and visuomotor coordination. The overall performance index also increased markedly compared with that achieved through traditional teaching methods. Furthermore, a questionnaire assessing participants’ attitudes and satisfaction revealed an approval rate of 87%, reflecting the effectiveness of the proposed program and its potential to serve as a valuable addition to university curricula.

Educational Behavior and Its Relationship to Organizational Agility among Physical Education Teachers from the Perspective of Specialized School Principals

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Educational programs in the field of sports have increasingly attracted the attention of educational institutions seeking effective approaches to achieving their institutional goals, vision, and mission. Particular emphasis is placed on physical education classes, especially within higher education institutions, which strive to foster initiative and encourage the development of scientific research methods in order to prepare a generation of students capable of keeping pace with ongoing developments and contributing to the achievement of broader educational objectives. The research problem stems from the importance of educational behavior as a key component of physical education instruction and as a contemporary approach that enables teachers to manage lessons through a systematic and sequential organization of activities. Such an approach can help reduce the time and effort required for instruction while enhancing teachers’ personal capabilities and developing the skills necessary to fulfill their objectives and professional responsibilities. Accordingly, this study aimed to construct a scale for assessing educational behavior among physical education teachers from the perspective of specialized school principals and to develop a scale for assessing organizational agility among physical education teachers from the same perspective.

A Training Program Using High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) to Reduce Excess Body Weight in Men at Fitness Centers

Assist. Prof. Tanya Hassan Hussein, Assist. Prof. Dr. Hawkar Salar Ahmed — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has emerged as an effective exercise strategy for promoting weight loss, improving body composition, and enhancing physical fitness within relatively short periods. The significance of this study lies in examining the use of HIIT to reduce body weight among men aged 30–35 years who attend fitness centers. The study aimed to design a specialized HIIT training program lasting two months and comprising 24 training sessions to reduce body weight in men attending fitness centers, as well as to identify differences between the pre- and post-tests in the experimental sample. The researchers adopted an experimental approach, given its suitability for the nature of the research problem. The sample consisted of 10 physically inactive male participants recruited from Class Gym fitness center. The results demonstrated that HIIT exercises were effective in reducing body weight among men aged 30–35 years. Accordingly, the study recommends that physically inactive individuals attending fitness centers engage in structured training programs, including HIIT, given its potential contribution to weight reduction.

The Effect of the REAP Strategy on Volleyball Officiating Performance among Third-Year Students at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Wasit

Lect. Haneen Maysam Al-Saadi (Ph.D) — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The REAP strategy offers substantial educational benefits by promoting comprehension rather than rote memorization. Its stages encourage analysis and reflection, enabling students to develop ideas and process information by organizing, encoding, and reformulating it according to their own understanding and in their own words. The strategy also promotes classroom participation by transforming learners from passive recipients into active participants in the learning process. Furthermore, it fosters learner autonomy and self-directed learning while accommodating individual differences by allowing students to engage with learning tasks according to their abilities and pace. The significance of the present study stems from the nature of volleyball officiating, which requires officials to interpret situations accurately, identify and correct errors promptly, make decisive judgments, and integrate prior knowledge with new information. The research problem emerged from the researcher's interaction with students, during which questions concerning volleyball officiating signals revealed weaknesses in their officiating performance and their ability to execute the required signals. An examination of their grades also indicated inconsistent performance, with achievement generally remaining at a moderate level. Accordingly, this study aimed to design instructional units based on the REAP strategy for third-year students to improve their volleyball officiating performance and to investigate the effect of this strategy on that performance. The study hypothesized that statistically significant differences would exist between the pre-test and post-test results of the experimental and control groups in volleyball officiating performance, as well as between the groups' post-test results, in favor of the experimental group. The research population comprised 150 third-year students enrolled at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Wasit, during the 2025–2026 academic year. The main study sample consisted of 60 students selected from Sections C and F. The officiating assessment form was developed and processed through a systematic, sequential set of methodological procedures.

Barriers to Implementing E-Management in Sports Activities at Al-Iraqia University

Lect. Aws Saad Hussein — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Technological advancement has transformed administrative practices in all their aspects, positively contributing to time and effort savings and improving the efficiency of tasks associated with service delivery. This impact is also evident in the management of sports activities at various levels, where the adoption of electronic management can reduce the time and effort required while maximizing operational efficiency. Accordingly, developing work mechanisms for managing university sports activities and improving the services they provide requires the simplification of administrative procedures and the adoption of technological and digital innovations to enhance efficiency and facilitate interactions with beneficiaries. However, the implementation and effective utilization of e-management systems vary across universities, as their adoption is not yet widespread. Therefore, this study sought to identify the barriers to implementing e-management technologies in sports activities at Al-Iraqia University, given their important role in service delivery and the smooth operation of administrative processes. The researcher employed a descriptive research method appropriate to the nature of the study. The sample consisted of 15 sports activity administrators and 120 students at Al-Iraqia University. The findings revealed several obstacles to implementing e-management in university sports activities. Technical and operational barriers included the absence of an electronic registration system for students wishing to participate in sports activities and the lack of an effective mechanism for notifying students of competition schedules through the university’s website. Furthermore, remote working arrangements had not been effectively implemented for staff working with students participating in university sports activities. Financial barriers included the lack of incentives and benefits linked to employees’ efforts to develop their skills, as well as insufficient resources to facilitate the delivery of electronic services. Human resource barriers included disparities in employees’ digital skills and their limited engagement with electronic work practices. Administrative barriers were also identified, particularly the lack of sufficient administrative authority for employees operating within the e-management system.

The Effect of Instructional Units Based on the Activity-Based Learning Strategy on Students’ Acquisition of the Dribbling Skill in Football

Assist. Lect. Sulaiman Dawood Khudair — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study sought to contribute to the development of academic knowledge by investigating the application of the activity-based learning strategy to students’ acquisition of the dribbling skill in football, with the aim of enhancing their technical performance of this fundamental skill, which is important in both their academic and practical development. The research problem stems from the observation that fundamental football skills are not always acquired to a level commensurate with the rapid development of the modern game. The study hypothesized that statistically significant differences would exist between the pre-test and post-test results of both the experimental and control groups, in favor of the post-test results. The researcher adopted an experimental method using a two-group design with pre- and post-tests, as it was considered appropriate to the nature of the research problem. The field procedures involved implementing an instructional program based on the activity-based learning strategy, and the results were analyzed using statistical tables. The findings revealed an improvement in the acquisition of motor performance skills among the student participants in the research sample.

The Role of Motor Perception in Enhancing Performance Accuracy among Sports Forum Players in Diyala Governorate, Iraq: A Descriptive Study

Assist. Lect. Ali Muzhir Abdullah — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between motor perception and skill-performance accuracy, particularly shooting accuracy, among players affiliated with sports forums in Diyala Governorate, Iraq. The researcher employed a descriptive correlational method, which was considered appropriate to the nature of the study. The research population consisted of players affiliated with sports forums in Diyala Governorate in 2024, from whom a purposive sample of 60 players was selected. A questionnaire was used as the data collection instrument, and its validity was established through evaluation by a panel of experts in the relevant field. The findings revealed a statistically significant correlation between motor perception and skill-performance accuracy. The results also indicated statistically significant differences among players in their levels of motor perception and performance accuracy. Accordingly, the researcher recommended greater emphasis on developing motor perception because of its positive contribution to enhancing the skill performance of football players.

The Effect of Post-Activation Potentiation (PAP) Training on Selected Physical and Physiological Variables in Football Players Under 15 Years of Age

Assist. Lect. Bakhtiar Hussein Ali, Assist. Lect. Rozh Aso Ibrahim — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to investigate the effects of training based on the Post-Activation Potentiation (PAP) method on selected physical and physiological variables in youth football players aged 13–15 years at Peshmerga Football Club. The PAP-based training program involved activating the muscles used in subsequent movements through high-intensity resistance exercises followed by rapid, explosive movements, with the aim of enhancing explosive physical performance and cardiovascular function. The study sample consisted of a number of youth football players from Peshmerga Football Club; however, the exact sample size was not specified in the provided text. The players were divided into two groups: an experimental group that followed the PAP-based training program and a control group that continued with the regular training program. The intervention lasted eight weeks, with three training sessions per week. Physical performance was assessed using a 30-m sprint test, a vertical jump test, and an agility test. The physiological variables measured before and after the intervention included heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure. The findings indicated significant improvements in sprint performance, agility, and vertical jump performance in the experimental group compared with the control group. Improvements in cardiovascular function were also reported, as reflected in a lower resting heart rate and reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. These findings suggest that PAP-based training may be effective in improving selected physical and physiological variables in youth football players. The program was implemented based on the researchers’ proposed training procedures, informed by consultations with experts and coaches, alongside the participants’ adherence to the prescribed training sessions.

The Effectiveness of Implementing Performance Management Systems and Institutional Monitoring Mechanisms in Supporting Total Quality Management Requirements in the Departments of Sports and School Activities within Baghdad Directorates of Education

Lect. Zainab Jabbar Mohammed (Ph.D) — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to identify the effectiveness of implementing performance management systems and institutional monitoring mechanisms in supporting total quality management in the Departments of Sports and School Activities within Baghdad Directorates of Education, from the perspective of their employees. The researcher adopted a descriptive-analytical approach and employed a questionnaire specifically designed for this purpose, which was administered to a random sample of employees working in the field of sports and school activities. The findings revealed a clear level of effectiveness in the implementation of performance management systems and institutional monitoring mechanisms in supporting total quality management, highlighting their role in improving institutional performance and enhancing administrative efficiency. The results also indicated statistically significant differences based on gender, in favour of female employees, in the level of implementation of these systems. The study recommended strengthening the implementation of performance management systems and institutional monitoring mechanisms, intensifying training programmes for employees, and fostering a culture of total quality management within the Departments of Sports and School Activities, thereby contributing to performance development and the achievement of institutional excellence.

The Use of Artificial Intelligence Technologies to Analyze Movement Patterns and Enhance the Teaching and Performance of the High Jump in Athletics

Assist. Lect. Ali Hussein Dhahir, Assist. Lect. Hussein Ali Hashim — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study examines the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to analyze movement patterns and improve performance in the high jump, a track and field event. The integration of AI into sports training has opened new opportunities for performance analysis and skill development. The significance of this study lies in proposing innovative technological approaches to enhancing athletic performance through the precise analysis of movement data, thereby helping coaches and athletes overcome limitations associated with traditional training methods. The study aims to identify the benefits and challenges of using AI in sports performance analysis, explore how these technologies can be applied to analyze movement patterns in the high jump, and provide practical recommendations for improving athletes’ performance based on AI-driven analysis. A random sample of 20 fourth-year students was selected from a population of 200 students at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Kufa, to represent the target population. The findings indicated that AI technologies can play a significant role in enhancing performance, with reported improvements reaching up to 90% when simulation models and video analysis were integrated with modern teaching strategies. The use of AI also enables the development of individualized training programs, allowing coaches to identify and address each athlete’s specific weaknesses more effectively. In light of these findings, the study recommends that coaches make greater use of AI technologies in daily training programs and that specialized educational programs be developed to train coaches in their effective application. It also calls for further research into AI applications in sports, with particular emphasis on developing new tools for performance analysis. Integrating modern training methods with AI technologies may contribute to improved athletic performance and create new opportunities for innovation and development in this field. Overall, the study highlights the importance of technology in enhancing athletic performance and training effectiveness, thereby helping raise competitive standards in the high jump and athletics more broadly.

The Effectiveness of Specific Repetition-Method Exercises in Developing Leg Muscular Power and Shooting Accuracy among Youth Futsal Players of Shahraban Sports Club

Abbas Fadhil Hammad, Arey Akram Yawar — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study addresses the use of specific exercises based on the repetition training method to develop leg muscular power and shooting accuracy among youth futsal players. The significance of the study lies in designing and implementing specialized exercises using this training method, characterized by relatively short rest intervals, which the researchers expected to influence players’ leg muscular power and improve their shooting accuracy. These exercises are intended to enhance players’ ability to maintain a high level of performance throughout a futsal match, thereby contributing to overall team performance. Futsal players are required to sustain effective physical and technical performance for the entire duration of a match. Drawing on their field experience, the researchers observed weaknesses in players’ physical fitness that could limit their ability to maintain performance until the end of a match. Accordingly, they proposed developing specific exercises based on the repetition training method to positively influence leg muscular power and shooting accuracy among youth futsal players. The study aimed to design specialized exercises for futsal players and investigate their effects on the performance of youth players.

Creative Mental Abilities and Their Relationship to Skill Accuracy in Tennis among Third-Year Students

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to assess the level of creative mental abilities and examine their relationship with skill accuracy in selected tennis skills among third-year students at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences. The study was motivated by the important role of mental abilities, particularly creative thinking, in enhancing technical performance and enabling rapid and accurate decision-making when executing sports skills in the changing situations characteristic of tennis. The researchers employed a descriptive correlational method, which was appropriate to the nature of the research problem and its objectives. The study population consisted of third-year students, and a purposive sample of 30 students was selected. The researchers used a creative mental abilities scale and skill-accuracy tests in tennis, including the modified Hewitt test to assess the accuracy of the serve and the forehand and backhand groundstrokes. Data were analyzed using the arithmetic mean, standard deviation, and Pearson’s simple correlation coefficient. The findings indicated that the students’ level of creative mental abilities was moderate, tending toward good. Statistically significant positive correlations were also found between creative mental abilities and skill accuracy across all the tennis skills examined. The strongest correlation was observed for the forehand groundstroke, followed by the backhand groundstroke and then the serve. The researchers concluded that developing creative mental abilities can contribute meaningfully to improving skill accuracy in tennis. Accordingly, they recommended that mental abilities be given greater consideration alongside technical skills in educational and training programs.

The Effect of the Self-Regulated Learning Approach on Attentional Stability and Learning the Basketball Free-Throw Skill among First-Grade Primary School Pupils

Assist. Prof. Dr. Bahaa Hussein Abdul-Amir Al-Yasiri — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The research problem addressed the need to identify alternative teaching approaches for developing fundamental basketball skills through the use of self-regulated learning. This approach relies primarily on pupils’ ability to regulate their own learning, identify appropriate solutions, and develop awareness of the movements required to master the skill being learned. The study aimed to investigate the effect of self-regulated learning on attentional stability and the acquisition of the basketball free-throw skill among first-grade primary school pupils. The researchers hypothesized that self-regulated learning would have a significant effect on attentional stability and free-throw skill acquisition. The study population consisted of male and female first-grade primary school pupils in the central district of Babil Governorate during the 2025–2026 academic year. The main experimental sample comprised 40 pupils from Salman Al-Muhammadi Primary School, which was randomly selected from the original study population by drawing lots. The pupils were distributed across two classes, with 22 pupils in Class A and 18 in Class B. The participants were assigned to an experimental group, which received instruction using the self-regulated learning approach, and a control group, which followed the teaching method traditionally used by the teacher. Each group consisted of 20 pupils. The groups were assessed for equivalence in the study variables before the intervention. Following data collection and analysis, the study concluded that the self-regulated learning approach played a substantial role in helping pupils acquire the basketball free-throw skill. Furthermore, improvements in attentional stability positively contributed to learning stationary shooting skills in general and the free throw in particular.

Self-Efficacy and Its Relationship with Competitive Behavior among Handball Players of the University of Wasit

Prof. Dr. Yasameen Hameed Majeed, Prof. Dr. Amer Saeed Al-Khaikani — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to assess self-efficacy and competitive behavior among the members of the University of Wasit handball team during the 2025–2026 academic year and to examine the nature of the relationship between these two variables. To achieve these objectives, the researcher employed a descriptive methodology incorporating both the survey method and correlational analysis. The study population comprised the players of the University of Wasit handball team during the 2025–2026 academic year. Two research instruments were selected: a self-efficacy scale and a competitive behavior scale. Their suitability for administration to the university’s handball players was established before they were applied to the study population. The collected data were then subjected to appropriate statistical analyses, and the results were presented in tables, analyzed, and discussed. The study yielded several key conclusions. First, the University of Wasit handball team players demonstrated a high level of self-efficacy. Second, they exhibited a high level of competitive behavior. Third, higher levels of self-efficacy were associated with a greater tendency among the players to adopt competitive behavior. These findings highlight the relationship between athletes’ beliefs in their own capabilities and their behavioral responses in competitive sporting contexts.

The Effect of Specialized Exercises on Learning the Setting and Reception Skills in Volleyball among Pupils Aged 10–12 Years

Lect. Sarmad Abdul-Ridha Abdul-Hussein (Ph.D) — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study highlights the pivotal role of physical education classes in improving individuals’ daily lives through the motor activities and exercises incorporated into these lessons. It also considers volleyball as a sport characterized by rapid, changing, and unpredictable situations, as well as a wide variety of movement patterns and performance techniques. The significance of this study lies in examining the effect of specialized instructional exercises on learners’ acquisition of fundamental volleyball skills and determining how such exercises may contribute to achieving optimal learning outcomes and improving the effectiveness of the educational process. The main research problem concerns the difficulties experienced by pupils in learning two essential volleyball skills: the overhead setting skill and the forearm reception skill. These difficulties may adversely affect their subsequent acquisition of other fundamental volleyball skills. Accordingly, the researcher sought to address these two skills through a systematic, scientifically grounded approach aimed at reducing learning obstacles and minimizing technical errors during skill acquisition. The study pursued three objectives: (1) to identify the effect of specialized instructional exercises on learning the volleyball setting skill among participants in the experimental group; (2) to determine the effect of these exercises on learning the volleyball reception skill among participants in the experimental group; and (3) to identify statistically significant differences in the acquisition of setting and reception skills between the experimental and control groups.

The Effect of a Training Program on Developing Selected Defensive Skills in Youth Badminton Players

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to develop selected defensive skills among youth badminton players by identifying the most common defensive skills used by this age group, designing a training program to improve these skills, and evaluating the program’s effectiveness. The study sample consisted of 26 badminton players registered at a training center affiliated with the Iraqi Badminton Federation. A pilot sample of 10 players was selected to establish the scientific properties of the tests used in the study, while the main sample comprised the remaining 16 players. The main sample was divided into an experimental group of eight players, who undertook the proposed training program, and a control group of eight players. The principal findings indicated that the proposed training program improved performance across all physical fitness tests and defensive skill assessments administered to the experimental group. Furthermore, the experimental group demonstrated greater improvement than the control group in both physical fitness tests and the defensive skills examined. These findings support the effectiveness of the proposed training program in developing selected physical capacities and defensive skills among youth badminton players.