Skill performance in relation to attention focus and response speed in futsal for female students

Abstract

The research aims to predict skill performance based on two cognitive variables: attention focus and response speed in futsal for female students. The researcher used a descriptive approach with survey methods and correlational and predictive relationships. The research population consisted of fourth-year students from the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Babylon for the academic year 2022-2023, totaling 38 students. The researcher selected all of them to represent the research sample subsequently, tests for cognitive processes were conducted at the University of Babylon using an electronic device (Saeed-Haitham device). Skill performance tests (passing, dribbling, shooting) in futsal were also conducted. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 was used for statistical analysis to process the results. Among the findings of the research was the derivation of a predictive equation for skill performance in futsal based on cognitive processes (attention focus, response speed) among female students. The recommendations from the research emphasized the necessity of focusing on higher cognitive processes during the learning and performance of futsal skills across different age groups, including both genders, particularly female students, as these processes help to define specific movement pathways for performance based on the nature of the skills.