DAMU Journal of Sports Sciences A periodical scientific journal specializing in sports sciences and subject to scientific arbitration. Issued by the Deanship of Hilla University College
The effect of semi-competitive exercises in developing the skills of offensive reservation and deception from standing in basketball for players aged 14-16 years
Developing these skills for players requires them to adhere to training units and all matters related to training. It also requires the coach to make great efforts and choose modern exercises similar to the actual performance of the match and appropriate for the targeted age group, especially the junior category, whose ages range from 14 to 16 years. It represents the strong foundation that is relied upon in building an advanced level in basketball. The research aims to prepare semi-competitive exercises in developing the skills of offensive reservation and deception from standing in basketball for players aged 14-16 years. The researcher selected the research sample randomly by lottery with a number of (14) players and a percentage of (88%). The researcher concluded that there is a development in offensive skills (offensive reservation and deception from standing) in basketball for young players (the experimental group). The development of some physical and motor abilities had a positive impact on the development of some offensive basketball skills for young players.
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Interactive Thinking and its Relationship to 800-Meter Performance among Physical Education and Sports Science Students
This research aims to identify the relationship between interactive thinking and 800-meter performance in the track and field event among students of the College of Physical Education and Sports Science at Al-Mustansiriya University. The researcher used the descriptive method as it was suitable for the nature of the research problem. The research population was defined as the students of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at Al-Mustansiriya University during the academic year (2025-2026), totaling (170) students. The main study sample consisted of (30) students, representing (17.64%), while the pilot study sample comprised (9) students randomly selected from the research population. After presenting and discussing the results, a number of conclusions were reached, including a significant correlation between the interactive thinking scale and the level of achievement in the 800-meter race among fourth-year students at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences. Interactive thinking helps students make appropriate decisions during performance, such as choosing the right time to increase speed or maintain running pace. The researcher recommends focusing on developing interactive thinking among students at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences due to its role in improving performance in track and field events. She also emphasizes the necessity of integrating physical and mental training when preparing students for track and field events. Furthermore, she recommends conducting a similar study on students in various sports.
students of the Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences
The Impact of Blended Learning on Students' Learning of Basic Basketball Skills
This research aims to identify the impact of blended learning on students' learning of basic basketball skills. It also aims to identify the differences between the experimental and control groups in learning these basic basketball skills. The researchers adopted an experimental design with two equivalent groups (control and experimental) using pre- and post-testing. The research population consisted of 150 third-year intermediate students at Tariq Al-Taf Intermediate School for Boys, affiliated with the Babylon Directorate of Education, during the 2025-2026 academic year. The research sample consisted of (30) students randomly selected and divided into two groups: an experimental group and a control group, each comprising (15) students. Pre- and post-tests were administered for basic basketball skills (chest passing, receiving and catching the ball, and shooting from a stationary position). These tests were conducted in conjunction with the application of blended learning modules. The study comprised (8) modules, delivered over (4) weeks, with two modules per week, each module lasting (45) minutes. The research concluded that the blended learning strategy had a positive impact on students' learning of some basic basketball skills. One of the recommendations is to utilize the blended learning strategy in teaching basketball skills and other sports, as it is suitable for the students' age group..
The Impact of Integration-Based Skill Exercises on Creative Thinking and Learning Some Offensive Football Skills for Students
Given the importance of diversifying teaching strategies, the "integration" process emerges as an effective mechanism that allows teachers to employ innovative methods aimed at stimulating creative thinking. This, in turn, is reflected in the mastery of sports skills, particularly offensive skills, which give students the opportunity to grasp complex motor tasks within the educational environment. The significance of this research lies in developing integrated physical and skill exercises using the "integration" method within educational units. This aims to develop students' creative thinking skills and enhance their self-confidence and ability to actively participate in sports activities. To achieve this objective, the researcher adopted an experimental approach with two groups (experimental and control) using a sample of 40 first-year students from the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences. The students were equally divided between the two groups. The experimental group underwent the proposed integration exercises along with the application of a creative thinking scale. After conducting pre- and post-tests and statistically analyzing the data, the results showed statistically significant differences favoring the experimental group. This leads to the conclusion that using skill-based exercises using the integration method has a significant positive impact on developing creative thinking and improving the performance of offensive football skills
The effect of suspension rope exercises on health and fitness components and functional variables in women aged 20-35
This study aimed to develop exercises using TRX suspension ropes and to identify the effect of these exercises on the components of health fitness and functional variables in women aged 20-35 years. The researcher used the experimental method with a single experimental group design using pre- and post-tests, as it was suitable for the nature of the problem to be solved. The research sample was selected purposively and included (7) physically active women, aged between (30-35) years, who frequented sports centers in Baquba. The field research procedures included conducting experiments and tests that included health-related fitness tests (arm grip strength test, arm and shoulder strength endurance test, flexibility test, and balance test), as well as measuring functional variables that included (resting pulse, post-exercise pulse, resting systolic blood pressure, post-exercise systolic blood pressure, resting diastolic blood pressure, and post-exercise diastolic blood pressure). The researcher implemented the suspension rope exercises. (TRX) for (8) weeks, two sessions per week, for a total of (18) sessions. Based on the results obtained, the researcher concluded that the TRX training program proved effective in developing functional muscle strength in athletes, particularly in the core muscles, core muscles, and muscles involved in motor performance. This is due to the exercise's reliance on bodyweight resistance and the increased demands placed on dynamic stability.
Scouting Activities and Their Relationship to Human Resources Management for Scout Leaders in the Diyala Directorate of Education
Objective of the Study: The study aimed to explore the relationship between scouting activities and human resources management for scout leaders in the Diyala Directorate of Education. The researcher used the descriptive method with a correlational approach, as it is the most appropriate methodology for addressing the research problem. The research population consisted of scout leaders in the Diyala Directorate of Education and its administrative units involved in sports activities. The research sample was randomly selected through a lottery method, and the total sample size was (22) male scout leaders. The researcher concluded that there is a significant correlation between scouting activities and human resources management for scout leaders, highlighting the role of scouting activities in improving leadership skills among scout leaders in the Diyala Directorate of Education. Scouting activities significantly contribute to developing leadership skills, such as organization and decision-making, which enhances the ability of leaders to manage scout teams effectively. The researcher recommends enhancing training programs for scout leaders in leadership and strategic management to improve their performance and develop their leadership skills. Additionally, greater support for scouting activities should be provided in terms of human and material resources to ensure the improvement of the activities’ efficiency and the achievement of their educational goals.
Asst. Lect. Intithar Abdul Sattar Jassim
The impact of an educational program based on the holistic-partial mixed method for learning certain football skills
The importance of the research lies in preparing an educational program based on the mixed whole-part method, which contributes to raising the level of learning skills, correct motor coordination, high fluidity, and developing the level of football performance. The researcher's experience has shown that players face difficulty in the process of linking when learning and mastering football skills. Therefore, the researcher decided to prepare an educational program in providing diverse learning situations that serve the process according to the mixed whole-part method in achieving the goals. The experimental method was used for the experimental and control groups. The research population was the Ishtar Football Academy for the 2025 sports season, with a total of 30 players, with 15 players in each group. The researcher concluded that the educational program based on the mixed whole-part method had a positive effect on learning some football skills.
Psychological Integration and its Relationship to the Performance of Forehand and Backhand Stroke Skills in Tennis for Female Students
This research comprises five chapters: The significance of this research lies in establishing the relationship between psychological integration and the performance of forehand and backhand stroke skills among second-year students in the Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences. Research Methodology: The researcher employed a descriptive correlational approach to address the research problem. The research population and sample consisted of second-year students in the Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, College of Education for Women, University of Kufa, for the academic year 2023-2024. The sample included 26 students, with 3 excluded due to absence and 5 participating in a pilot study. The performance of the forehand and backhand stroke skills was evaluated. The results revealed a correlation between psychological integration and the forehand and backhand stroke skills in tennis. The researcher concluded that the vocabulary used in the second-stage tennis lesson was extensive, with each element influencing the others. The researcher recommends focusing on developing psychological integration through the use of diverse training methods and programs, given the significant impact this integration has on improving performance in various sports, activities, and athletic skills, in addition to supporting academic achievement.
Performance of the forehand and backhand strokes in tennis
The Effect of Special Exercises According to the Kinetic Energy Law on Developing Some Physical Abilities of Youth Football Players
Football is one of the most important and popular sports in the world and receives special attention in most countries. Therefore, it has gained special importance in development aspects, as it is a game that requires special physical, technical and skill qualifications. Therefore, specialists in this field have worked to adopt the best scientific methods in developing players. Therefore, the research problem was represented by the clear weakness in the physical abilities of the players, especially in the aspect of speed, as it represents and expresses the athlete’s efficiency. The aim of the study was to prepare special exercises according to the law of kinetic energy. In terms of standardizing the intensity of these exercises according to the required goal, and then applying these exercises within the daily training units to develop the physical abilities of the players and to identify the significant differences between the pre- and post-tests. The most important conclusion was that there was a clear development in physical abilities. The researcher recommended using exercises whose intensity was regulated according to the energy law to develop the physical abilities of players in various games, especially football.
Prof. Dr. Ali Abdul Hassan Hussein Abbas
Psychological structure and its relationship to the accuracy of performing the volleyball spike skill for students
The importance of this research lies in its connection between the psychological aspects of students' psychological makeup and their educational programs, which contributes to raising their skill performance level. Psychological makeup represents the "internal structure" that allows students to motivate themselves, direct their attention, and control anxiety or tension that may arise in critical moments, thus preventing a decline in performance under pressure. Since the spiking skill is one of the most psychologically demanding skills (high pressure, the need for quick decision-making, and the need to counter with a defensive block), understanding psychological makeup and its relationship to the accuracy of spiking in students is a crucial focus for research and application in the field of physical education and volleyball. The research problem is defined as the need to reveal the nature of the relationship between psychological structure and the accuracy of the volleyball spike skill among students, and to identify the psychological traits that contribute most to the accuracy of performance, with the aim of providing a scientific basis that enables teachers to design integrated educational and psychological programs that improve the level of skill performance in educational and competitive situations alike. This research aims to: develop a psychological structure scale for students' volleyball spikes and identify the relationship between psychological structure and students' volleyball spikes. The research hypothesizes that there is a statistically significant relationship between psychological structure and students' volleyball spikes. Conclusions: A psychological structure scale was developed for second-year students in the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences. Recommendations: It is recommended to use the psychological structure scale as a diagnostic and evaluative tool to monitor the development of this variable periodically among students, thus contributing to monitoring the educational and psychological impact of various educational interventions.
The Effect of Mindfulness Training Based on "Live Visual Tracking" Technique on Decision-Making Speed and Flow State among Handball Playmakers
The research aimed to develop a training program integrating mindfulness exercises with live visual tracking techniques and to identify its impact on enhancing decision-making speed and flow state among handball playmakers. The researcher used the experimental method with a two-group design (experimental and control) on a purposive sample of (20) playmakers from Premier League handball clubs for the 2025-2026 season. The sample was divided into two equal groups of (10) players each. The proposed program was implemented over (8) weeks, with (3) training sessions per week. It included specific exercises merging moment-to-moment mental presence with visual processing of complex game situations. Data were analyzed using the SPSS package. The results revealed statistically significant differences between the pre- and post-tests in favor of the post-tests for the experimental group across all investigated variables. Furthermore, the experimental group significantly outperformed the control group in the post-tests, indicating the effectiveness of mindfulness and visual tracking training in improving playmaker efficiency. Key Conclusions: Mindfulness training contributed to reaching the "Flow State," ensuring smooth performance under pressure. Live visual tracking techniques reduced mental response time, leading to faster and more accurate decision-making. Key Recommendations: Adopting training programs that integrate cognitive aspects (visual and mental) within handball preparation programs. Conducting similar studies on different playing positions and in other sports.
The Effect of Coordination Exercises on Developing the Skills of Handstand and Forward Roll in Artistic Gymnastics for Students
Gymnastics has a special place among the sports that have almost infinite origins, and have made their way through time, in addition to the special requirements that must be met by its players, as it has a noble artistic character These requirements, whether physical, motor, mental, psychological, or physiological, play a significant and fundamental role in gymnastics. Motor coordination is one of the most important motor skills that must be emphasized in training from childhood, Developing motor coordination to a sufficient extent improves the motor and functional state of the individual in performing sports movements in the best possible way, especially complex ones. The importance of the research lies in developing exercises for motor coordination ability and benefiting from them in developing the skills of standing on the hands and rolling forward in artistic gymnastics for students, The research problem lies in the clear weakness in the speed of development of these skills among third-year students. Therefore, the researchers decided to study the effect of motor coordination exercises on developing the handstand and forward roll skills in artistic gymnastics for students. The research objectives were to identify the effect of motor coordination exercises on developing the handstand and forward roll skills in artistic gymnastics for students. The researchers used the experimental method to suit the problem and objectives of the research. The compatibility test was used, as well as presenting a form to evaluate the technical performance of the research skills by the researchers, followed by the skill of controlling the preconceived notions, then applying practices, followed by the skill of creative writing, then analyzing the data, where they used statistics The researchers concluded several results: 1-There were statistically significant differences between the pre- and post-tests in the development of handstand and forward roll skills for the experimental group, in favor of the post-test. Recommendations. 2-Incorporate exercises specific to motor coordination during gymnastics classes, particularly in the preparatory section and special warm-ups. Recommendations: 1-Conduct periodic motor coordination tests for third-year gymnastics students. 2-Conduct similar studies on motor coordination among beginners, youth, and advanced gymnasts. 3-Conduct similar studies to determine the relationship and impact of motor coordination, cover skills, and the forehand jump in artistic gymnastics.
The Effect of Using Virtual Reality Glasses in the Rehabilitation of Lateral Ankle Ligament Tears among Female Artistic Gymnastics Athletes
The study aims to determine the extent to which the use of virtual reality goggles combined with rehabilitation exercises contributes to restoring the efficiency of the ankle joint after a partial tear of the lateral ligament, thereby helping athletes return to their sports activity. The researchers adopted the experimental method, as it fits the nature of the study, using a single group subjected to pre- and post-tests. The research sample consisted of four female athletes suffering from partial tears of the lateral ligament. They were deliberately selected, and each athlete underwent the rehabilitation program individually according to the timing of her injury and the diagnosis provided by the treating physician, due to the unavailability of all cases at the same time. The experimental group used a rehabilitation program supported by virtual reality (VR) goggles. The researchers concluded that there were clear positive effects of using virtual reality goggles along with the prescribed rehabilitation exercises in rehabilitating partial tears of the lateral ankle ligament among artistic gymnastics athletes. They recommended adopting this rehabilitative approach due to its effective role in improving joint condition and accelerating the athletes’ return to their sports activity.
Analyzing the Effectiveness of Professional Evaluation Systems and Performance Measurement in University Sports Units and Departments
Universities have recently witnessed a noticeable expansion in their sports activities, making sports units an essential component of the administrative and academic structure. In light of ongoing developments in higher education and the increasing emphasis on quality assurance and academic accreditation, sports activity units are now required to adopt modern evaluation methods that align with quality standards. Effective performance measurement depends on the availability of clear benchmark indicators, reliable data-collection tools, and analytical procedures that support accurate decision-making in accordance with contemporary quality requirements. However, many universities continue to rely on traditional evaluation methods that fail to provide accurate indicators for performance improvement based on quality metrics. Therefore, there is a need for professional evaluation systems capable of diagnosing current conditions, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and supporting continuous development. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of these systems within university sports environments by examining their actual implementation and gathering the perspectives of practitioners. The findings indicate that the criteria of the professional evaluation system are clear and well understood by staff in sports units and departments, suggesting a solid theoretical foundation. The study recommends enhancing the competencies of system implementers through continuous training programs focused on evaluation methods, performance measurement techniques, and minimizing bias.
Analysis of Mental Toughness Levels Among Young Fencers in Light of Competitive Training Variables in Specialized Schools
This study aims to examine the level of mental toughness among young fencers in relation to competitive training variables within specialized sports schools, given the essential role this psychological trait plays in enabling athletes to cope with performance pressures in a sport characterized by speed and rapid decision-making such as fencing. The research problem emerged from the noticeable variation among young fencers in emotional regulation and self-confidence during competitions, highlighting the need to understand the training factors influencing these psychological aspects. The researcher sought to develop a dedicated mental toughness scale and determine its level among players, employing the descriptive-analytical approach as the most appropriate for the nature of the study. It was hypothesized that structured competitive training in specialized schools would enhance mental toughness, whereas lower levels of it could negatively affect future competitive performance. The study was conducted on 84 young fencers in specialized fencing schools in Iraq. The findings indicated that mental toughness among these athletes was generally high, reflecting the positive impact of competitive training environments on developing psychological skills. The researcher recommended implementing training units focused on improving emotional control, concentration, and relaxation skills to strengthen young athletes’ ability to handle competitive pressure.
Perceived control and its relationship to motor accuracy in junior football players
The importance of the research lies in deepening the scientific understanding of the nature of the relationship between the cognitive aspect and motor performance in football, especially for the junior category whose developmental characteristics differ from those of adult players. Understanding this relationship helps to raise the level of performance of junior teams by developing the players’ abilities in decision-making and accurate execution. The problem is crystallized in answering the question: "What is the nature of the correlational relationship between the level of perceived control and the level of motor accuracy among junior football players? And can the player's psychological perceptions of his ability to control contribute to improving his skill outputs?" Research Objective: To identify the nature of the relationship between the level of perceived control and the degree of motor accuracy among junior football players. Research Hypothesis: There is a statistically significant correlation between the level of perceived control and the degree of motor accuracy among junior football players. The researcher used the descriptive approach with a survey methodology and correlational analysis, as it is suitable for the nature of the research problem. Conclusions: The results showed a positive effect of mental fitness on the motor accuracy of young football players. Recommendations: It can be concluded that perceived control represents interconnected psychological and cognitive factors that actively contribute to improving players' performance in motor accuracy skills, and that providing a training environment based on understanding, motivation, and interaction is essential.
Design and legalization of the performance tolerance test of the neck and shoulder lock grip on the rotary wheel for gladiators aged (15-17) years
The importance of this research is evident as it seeks to design and legalise a new test that measures the tolerance of performance, holding the neck and shoulder lock in wrestlers aged (15-17) years using the rotating wheel, which contributes to filling a clear gap in the field of evaluating the special abilities of this category. Having a legalised test helps instructors obtain accurate data on the athlete's ability to produce repetitive strength while performing a neck and shoulder lock. It also helps in guiding the training process more scientifically, by determining the true level of the wrestler, following up the development of his abilities, and determining the type and intensity of the appropriate loads for him in the different stages of preparation. In addition, this test provides a tool that can be adopted in sports selection processes, and identifying the players who are most able to bear the burdens of competition, as for the research problem: The research problem is determined in the absence of a standardised test based on a scientific method and a suitable tool - such as the rotary wheel - to measure the tolerance of the performance of the neck and shoulder lock in wrestlers at the age of (15-17) years, which makes the urgent need to design a new test and verify its validity and scientific characteristics to ensure its adoption in training, evaluation and development. The two objectives of the research were: 1- Design and legalisation of the performance tolerance test of the neck and shoulder lock grip on the rotating wheel for gladiators aged (15-17). 2- Finding standards and levels to test the performance of the neck and shoulder lock grip on the rotating wheel for wrestlers aged (15-17) years. The descriptive method was used in the survey method. The research sample was for freestyle wrestling players in the specialised school in Basra Governorate and the Port Sports Club aged (15-17) years. After the design of the test, the most important conclusions were reached: that the test designed by the researcher is able to reveal the level of tolerance of the performance of the neck and shoulder lock grip on the rotating wheel of wrestlers aged (15-17) years. The most important recommendations were: the adoption of the current test as a means of detecting the level of tolerance of the neck and shoulder lock grip on the rotating wheel of gladiators aged (15-17) years.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Jalal Abdul Zahra Kanaan
The Relative Power of the Shooting Arm from Stationary and Movement Conditions and Its Relationship to Shooting Accuracy in Upper-Class Wheelchair Basketball Players
This study aimed to identify the relative power values of the throwing arm in stationary and moving conditions and to determine their relationship with shooting accuracy among elite wheelchair basketball players. The descriptive correlational method was used. The sample consisted of seven players from the Iraqi national wheelchair basketball team. Tests measuring relative arm power (stationary and dynamic) and shooting accuracy were applied. Statistical analysis included mean, standard deviation, and Pearson correlation coefficient. The results showed a significant positive correlation between relative throwing arm power and shooting accuracy. The study concluded that improving relative arm power plays a vital role in enhancing shooting accuracy in wheelchair basketball players.
Prof. Dr. Qasim Mohammed Abbas Al-Janabi
The relationship between key biomechanical abilities and the accuracy of passing and scoring skills in futsal for female students
The world has witnessed many changes in various sports, both team and individual, as a result of continuous efforts towards a deeper understanding of the foundations, rules, and concepts of sports training in order to raise the level of training performance. To reach higher levels, through research and constant awareness of everything new to add new, undiscovered information by following modern, organized scientific methods and techniques. The great achievements attained in various events did not come about by chance, but rather through sound scientific planning and the utilization of specialists in the sports field across all disciplines to serve the achievement in sports events and games. Futsal, in particular, is one of the sports that has received and continues to receive significant attention in various countries. Being one of the sports that is characterized by its widespread popularity and uniqueness stemming from its possession of elements of excitement and suspense, and this is not surprising because it is the offspring of football, the mother game. This interest has led specialists to constantly strive to develop the game by raising the students’ levels in terms of technical, tactical and psychological aspects, in addition to developing their physical fitness elements. The importance of the research lies in understanding the relationship between bio-motor abilities and the accuracy of passing and scoring skills in futsal among fourth-year female students, which can be properly utilized in a scientific manner to achieve success through good performance. The research problem, therefore, stemmed from the researcher's field experience and a survey of futsal team coaches' opinions. The game requires raising the student's skill and motor skills at all stages of preparation to a level that enables her to achieve all the requirements of the optimal futsal game. The skills of passing accuracy and scoring in futsal are of particular importance in this preparation, in addition to the other elements and requirements that depend on the variety, excitement and suspense. From all of the above, the research problem leads to the following question: (Is there a correlation between biomotor abilities and the accuracy of the students’ passing and scoring skills?). The main objectives were to identify the key biomechanical capabilities related to passing accuracy in futsal. The main hypothesis is that there is a relationship between biomechanical capabilities and passing accuracy in futsal. The research sample consisted of fourth-year female students in the College of Education for Girls/Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences (2025-2026). The research period was from 1/10/2025 to 1/4/2026. The research took place in the College of Education for Girls/Gymnasium in the Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences. The researcher used the descriptive method with a correlational approach, as it was suitable for the nature of the problem. The research sample consisted of (15) female students, deliberately selected from the College of Education for Girls / Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, representing 80% of the research population. One of the most important conclusions is that there is a direct relationship between explosive power and passing and scoring accuracy. The most important recommendation was to emphasize the development of biomechanical abilities related to the two skills of passing and scoring in varying proportions that correspond to the importance of each ability and its relationship to skill performance.
The Effect of Gradual Small-Sided Game Intensity Under Varied Tactical Situations on Developing Cognitive Effort and Decision-Making Quality Among Primary School Students in Futsal
This study aims to identify the effect of gradually increasing the intensity of small-sided games, when applied within varied tactical situations, on developing cognitive effort and the quality of decision-making among fifth-grade primary school students in futsal. The researchers used an experimental method with a two-group design (control and experimental) including pre- and post-tests. The sample consisted of 20 students, randomly divided into two equal groups. The experimental group underwent an educational program based on small-sided games with progressively increasing intensity (in terms of number of players, space, and time), implemented within tactical situations that simulate real-game environments. Meanwhile, the control group received traditional instruction. Cognitive effort was measured using the NASA-TLX scale, and decision-making quality was assessed through a field test based on visualized game situations. The results showed statistically significant differences in favor of the experimental group in both variables. The study recommends integrating progressively structured small-sided games into physical education curricula as an effective teaching approach that enhances tactical thinking and decision-making among students.
The impact of problem-solving strategies on students learning some basic volleyball skills
The rapid changes and emerging developments the world has witnessed in recent decades raise many questions about the future of human society. Problem-solving is a mental process in which individuals utilize all their existing knowledge, prior experiences, and skills, transforming the learner from a passive recipient to an active researcher. Furthermore, the close link between the effectiveness of educational strategies and student achievement necessitates that teachers innovate to keep pace with global quality standards. Physical education, like other subjects, requires diverse teaching methods and the application of these strategies, especially since they have already been implemented in theory. Herein lies the teacher's creativity in leveraging and demonstrating these methods in practical application, particularly in volleyball. Volleyball is an important activity that requires teachers to present it using innovative teaching methods to ensure improved skill performance among students. The research objectives are to identify the effectiveness of problem-solving strategies in teaching students the two volleyball skills of serving and receiving, and to compare the control and experimental groups in post-tests of these skills. The research methodology defines the current research population as fourth-grade preparatory students at Ur Preparatory School for Boys, affiliated with the Directorate of [Name of Directorate]. The Education Directorate of Dhi Qar Governorate/Nasiriyah District, for the academic year (2023-2024). The total population was (98) students, distributed across three classes: (A, B, and C). Second: The Research Sample: The researchers selected the research sample purposively, then divided it as follows: The pilot sample: (Class A) was chosen to conduct the pilot experiment. The experimental and control samples included (30) students from classes (B and C), with (15) students from each class. This sample represents (34.48%) of the original population. Using random selection, class (C) was chosen to represent the experimental group, which studied according to the "problem-solving strategy." Class (B) was chosen to represent the control group, which studied according to the "used method." As for the conclusions, the problem-solving strategy and the method used by the teacher played a positive role in teaching the students the skills of serving and receiving in volleyball. The experimental group, which applied the educational units according to the problem-solving strategy, outperformed the control group, which applied the used method, in learning the two skills. Serving and receiving in volleyball for students: The problem-solving strategy is one of the effective strategies in teaching the skills of serving and receiving in volleyball for students. As for the recommendations and the necessity of applying the educational curriculum with the problem-solving strategy in teaching the skills of serving and receiving in volleyball for students, it is necessary to work on the positive attitudes of the teaching staff, specifically the sports teachers, according to the innovations of different teaching strategies, including the problem-solving strategy, due to the positive results it achieves. It is necessary to conduct similar studies on other individual or team sports and age groups that were not covered by the current study for male and female students. .
Asst. Dr. JALEEL KAREEM ABDUL ABBAS ABDUL
The Effect of Special Exercises Using the Short–Short Interval Method on Some Physical and Skill Abilities of Youth Soccer Players Aged (17–19) Years
Football is one of the games that has witnessed a remarkable development in the performance of players and their ability to provide distinct levels through their ability to provide the best skill level throughout the game، which indicates the development of their various physical and skill capabilities. There are many and varied exercises that helped in the development of this game، and one of these exercises is the use of (intermittent exercises (short – short)، which is based on exercises that are close to the player's performance during the game، the goal of the study is to prepare exercises in the intermittent style (short – short) and their impact on the development of some physical abilities (maximum speed، explosive power، strength marked by speed) and skill(rolling، handling and scoring) for youth football players . The researcher used the experimental method using the method of equal groups on the players of the agreement Sports Football Club، numbering (20) young people after the sample was divided into two experimental and control groups، with (10) players for each group، and the two groups were equated with the study variables ، and the group underwent special exercises in the intermittent style (short – short) for (8) week and with (3) training units per week، and through the results، the researcher concluded that – Short) a positive impact on the development of some physical and skill abilities under study (maximum speed، explosive power، speed-marked strength) and some skills (rolling، handling and scoring.
The Effect of Problem-Solving Strategy on Learning Some Basic Skills in Futsal for Students
The significance of this research lies in its alignment with modern educational trends that call for innovation in teaching strategies. The current study was conducted to select a problem-solving strategy from among the numerous teaching strategies, as the researcher believes it has a positive impact on accelerating the pace of learning and acquiring some fundamental football skills among students, including passing accuracy and shooting accuracy, while optimizing the time and effort expended. The research aimed to identify the impact of the problem-solving strategy on learning passing accuracy and shooting accuracy in football among students. The research sample was selected from second-year students at the College of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Dhi Qar, for the academic year 2025-2026. The researcher employed experimental design with two groups: experimental and control. The key findings revealed the superiority of the experimental group, which implemented the educational curriculum using the problem-solving strategy, over the control group, which followed the teacher's traditional method, in learning both passing and shooting skills in football among the students. The researcher recommended conducting similar studies that investigate the problem-solving strategy for age groups not covered by the current study, for both male and female students.
Designing an innovative rehabilitation program for partial cruciate ligament and meniscus tears and developing some physical variables for advanced basketball players
The research problem lies in the lack of integrated rehabilitation programs that address ACL injuries. Despite significant progress in ACL surgery and rehabilitation, the vast majority of traditional rehabilitation programs still suffer from fundamental limitations, creating a gap between “medical recovery” and “functional sports readiness.” Traditional programs also rely on limited measures such as range of motion and maximal strength measurement, ignoring important variables such as erroneous movement patterns. They also lack an assessment of player performance in a simulated game environment that includes elements of decision-making and stress. As a result, programs are often stereotypical and do not take into account daily variations in a player’s response to training, which may lead to overtraining or failure to achieve optimal stimulation. The research aims to design an innovative rehabilitation program for partial ruptures of the ACL and meniscus, develop some physical variables for advanced basketball players, and identify the most important physical variables for injured basketball players. The researchers used the single-group experimental method due to its suitability for the nature of the research. The researchers determined the research population and sample intentionally, which is advanced players with ACL and meniscus injuries in Basra Governorate, and their number is Seven players. The researchers concluded that the innovative rehabilitation program was effective in achieving real and measurable improvements in the physical aspects of basketball players with cruciate ligament and meniscus injuries. The innovative rehabilitation program can be adopted as an advanced model that goes beyond traditional rehabilitation to comprehensive development of athletic performance.
The Effectiveness of Educational Leadership in Utilizing Physical and Sports Education Periods to Build a Culture of Peace and Social Cohesion: An Analytical Study of the Management of Official Secondary Schools in Lebanon
This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of educational leadership in utilizing physical and sports education periods to enhance social cohesion and build a culture of peace in official secondary schools in Lebanon. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical methodology, and a closed-ended questionnaire was administered to a sample of 73 principals. The results revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.702) between the efficiency of educational leadership in utilizing the sports period and the degree of promoting social cohesion. While current practices showed a good performance (mean = 2.58), they were below the optimal level. Structural obstacles were identified, most notably societal customs, resource scarcity, and political pressures. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of specific strategies such as participatory planning and building partnerships, and offers practical recommendations for developing school policies to enhance the role of the sports period as an effective tool for social cohesion.
High Inclusion of Sports Club Presidents in Nineveh Governorate in Light of Some Personal Variables Personality
The research aimed to identify differences in high-inclusion management among the heads of sports clubs in Nineveh Governorate according to age, years of service, and academic qualifications. The descriptive survey method was used, as it was suitable for the nature of the research. The research population included the members of the administrative boards of sports clubs in Nineveh Governorate for the years (2024-2025), totaling (133) board members, representing (16) clubs in Nineveh Governorate. The sample was selected purposively from those holding doctoral, master's, bachelor's, diploma, and secondary school degrees, with the exception of the club presidents, who numbered (16) club presidents, making the research population (117) individuals. In collecting the data, the researchers adapted the Inclusion Management Questionnaire prepared by Al-Juhayshi (2023) after verifying its reliability and validity. The data were processed using the arithmetic mean, standard deviation, percentage, analysis of variance, alpha coefficient, theoretical range, and class length to determine the theoretical categories for age and years of service. The researchers concluded There are no significant differences between the members of the administrative bodies of the clubs in Nineveh Governorate in managing high-inclusion according to age, service and academic qualification. The researchers recommend holding educational, training and development courses for the members of the administrative bodies of the clubs in Nineveh Governorate in managing high-inclusion with the help of experts specializing in management. The research aimed to identify differences in high-inclusion management among the heads of sports clubs in Nineveh Governorate according to age, years of service, and academic qualifications. The descriptive survey method was used, as it was suitable for the nature of the research. The research population included the members of the administrative boards of sports clubs in Nineveh Governorate for the years (2024-2025), totaling (133) board members, representing (16) clubs in Nineveh Governorate. The sample was selected purposively from those holding doctoral, master's, bachelor's, diploma, and secondary school degrees, with the exception of the club presidents, who numbered (16) club presidents, making the research population (117) individuals. In collecting the data, the researchers adapted the Inclusion Management Questionnaire prepared by Al-Juhayshi (2023) after verifying its reliability and validity. The data were processed using the arithmetic mean, standard deviation, percentage, analysis of variance, alpha coefficient, theoretical range, and class length to determine the theoretical categories for age and years of service. The researchers concluded There are no significant differences between the members of the administrative bodies of the clubs in Nineveh Governorate in managing high-inclusion according to age, service and academic qualification. The researchers recommend holding educational, training and development courses for the members of the administrative bodies of the clubs in Nineveh Governorate in managing high-inclusion with the help of experts specializing in management.
The Effect of Wheatley Strategy on Learning the Accuracy of Short and Long Serves in Badminton for Students
The research aims to identify the effect of the Wheatley strategy on learning the accuracy of short and long serves in badminton among students, as well as to identify the differences between the experimental and control groups in learning these skills. The researchers used the experimental method with a design of two equivalent groups (experimental and control) with pre- and post-tests. The research population consisted of third-year students from the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Karbala for the academic year (2025–2026), totaling (120) students. A sample of (40) students was selected and equally divided into two groups: experimental and control. The educational units were implemented according to the Wheatley strategy to develop the accuracy of short and long serves in badminton. The program included (6) instructional units over a period of (3) weeks, at a rate of two units per week, with each unit lasting (90) minutes. The steps of the Wheatley strategy (educational tasks, cooperative groups, and sharing) were applied. The results showed that the Wheatley strategy has a positive effect on learning the accuracy of short and long serves in badminton among students. The study also found that the experimental group outperformed the control group in the post-tests. The researchers recommend adopting the Wheatley strategy in teaching badminton skills, as it is considered one of the modern interactive teaching strategies.
The effectiveness of plyometric training in developing explosive power and biochemical enhancements, and its role in improving shooting accuracy from high jumps among junior handball players (15-16 years old)
This research aimed to develop jumping exercises to improve explosive power in the arms and legs, as well as shooting accuracy from high jumps, in certain biochemical variables for handball players in the sample. It also aimed to identify the effect of these plyometric exercises on developing explosive power in the arms and legs, biochemical variables, and shooting accuracy from high jumps in handball among the sample. The research hypotheses were that there is a statistically significant correlation between the pre-test and post-test results of the experimental group regarding explosive power in the arms and legs, certain biochemical variables, and shooting accuracy from high jumps in handball. The research scope consisted of a group of handball players from the National Center for Sports Talent Development, Ministry of Youth and Sports, from March 2, 2024, to May 2, 2024, and was conducted at the halls of the National Center for Sports Talent Development, Baghdad Governorate, Ministry of Youth and Sports. The research sample was selected purposively and consisted of a group of players from the National Center for Sports Talent Development in handball, affiliated with the Ministry of Youth and Sports. From this age group, nine talented players aged 15-16 years were selected. Two players were excluded from the pilot study, resulting in a sample size of eight players, representing 75% of the original study population. The recommendations included conducting research using plyometric exercises to develop biochemical variables and observe the functional responses of the sample members. Emphasis was placed on explosive power exercises due to their effectiveness in developing the skill of high-jump shooting, based on the functional variables under study for the sample members. It was also recommended to conduct periodic tests on other activities not included in this research, using biochemical variables from different age groups.
The Effect of Using Reaction Balls on Some Physical and Skill Variables of Junior Futsal Players
This research aims to identify the effect of using reaction balls during training on some physical and skill variables of junior futsal players. This is achieved through implementing a set of specific and structured exercises using this tool, which has recently become widely used. It is also readily available and does not require significant financial resources that may burden sports institutions. Through reviewing previous studies conducted using similar simple tools, which demonstrated positive changes in their respective samples, the researchers decided to experiment with this tool in futsal within the city of Mosul. This was done by incorporating it into a training program applied to the research sample consisting of junior futsal players from Al-Mustaqbal Al-Mushriq Club. The researchers adopted the experimental method due to its suitability to the nature of the study. The research sample consisted of (24) players, divided into a control group and an experimental group. Appropriate tests related to the study variables were conducted. The experimental group performed exercises using reaction balls, while the control group followed traditional training exercises prescribed by the coach. The researchers used statistical methods, including the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), arithmetic mean, standard deviation, paired sample t-test, independent sample t-test, in addition to percentage analysis. The results indicated a positive effect on some physical and skill variables when training with reaction balls, as the experimental group outperformed the control group in both physical and skill variables compared to traditional training.
The Effect of a Training Program Using High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Based on the Acceleration Curve on Developing Speed Endurance in the 200m Run
The world is witnessing rapid developments beyond imagination, utilizing every new and advanced method to encompass all training and scientific aspects within a short period of time. Consequently, sports studies have increasingly relied on well-structured training programs and sound scientific foundations that align with the requirements of training, scientific research, and the studied problem. Sports in general, and track and field in particular, are characterized by training programs built on scientific principles, requiring high levels of training, skill mastery, and physical qualities. The research problem lies in the necessity of adopting advanced, modern, and scientific approaches in evaluating athletes’ performance, which has become a fundamental requirement to support the training process. Through reviewing scientific sources, references, and field experience, the researcher observed that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) plays a vital role in achieving high performance. The aim of this research was to identify the effect of high-intensity interval training on the development of speed endurance and the performance of the 200-meter sprint for students of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Thi-Qar. The research hypothesized that there would be statistically significant differences between the pre- and post-tests in both speed endurance and 200-meter performance among the students. The researcher employed the experimental method due to its suitability for the nature of the study, as experimental research is considered one of the most accurate approaches in identifying the relationship between independent and dependent variables. The research sample consisted of (10) students from various stages in the College of Physical Education, specializing in the 200-meter sprint event. The findings indicate that high-intensity interval training, particularly using the acceleration curve, can be adopted as an effective and practical method for improving students’ abilities in short-distance track events, especially the 200 meters. The researcher recommends emphasizing the development of speed endurance to enhance 200-meter performance and encouraging the use of high-intensity interval training as an effective method in developing speed endurance among students.
Asst. Lect. Khatam Adas Kadhim Al-Shuwaili