JOURNAL OF SPORT SCIENCES

The importance of this scientific research lies in several methodological and scientific aspects. This research contributes to enriching the scientific literature in the field of sports training, particularly regarding the structure of exercises when applied to the basic physical abilities of junior handball players, relying on standardized measurement tools such as the Loughborough fitness test. The researcher used a single-group pre-test/post-test experimental design with a single sample, as permitted by the fieldwork conditions. This design is distinguished by its ability to measure the change resulting from the application of the training program under study. Furthermore, it is one of the most suitable designs for sports research dealing with physical and motor abilities. The research population consists of 16 junior handball players from the Diyala Club. This population is considered suitable for research because the junior age group represents the foundational stage in building and developing physical and skill abilities, making them one of the groups most in need of training programs based on precise scientific principles. The sample was selected purposively, and (4) players were excluded due to non-compliance with pre- or post-measurement procedures and frequent absence from training sessions during the program. Thus, the research sample reached 80% of the original population as the arrangment process was carried out for the sample. Within the limits of the research sample, the research methodology used, and the nature of the statistical methods used to analyze the results. The researcher concluded that the game-like exercises implemented by the experimental group showed a positive effect on improving the post-test results. There was also an advantage in the post-test results in favor of the experimental group in all physical variables. The most important recommendations were considering the exercises used with the training young handball players, as well as adopting other game-like tests at different times.

This research aimed to identify the effectiveness of exercises based on Kolb's theory in developing perceived competence and its impact on learning the spiking skill in volleyball. The researcher hypothesized that the adopted method has a significant effect on developing perceived competence and learning the spiking skill in volleyball. The research population consisted of (24) players from Al-Muntazar Club for the 2024-2025 season in Wasit Governorate. Two groups were then randomly selected to represent the research sample: the control and experimental groups, each consists of (10) players. After selecting the tests for the research variables, the researcher conducted pre-tests and implemented the exercises. After completion, post-tests were conducted under the same conditions and variables as the pre-tests. Among the most important conclusions are:
1. Exercises based on Kolb's theory have a positive effect on the process of developing perceived competence, which in turn provides a better understanding of skill learning.
2. The experimental group outperformed the control group in perceived competence.

This study aims to identify the effect of group training using offensive and defensive formations on the development of the physical, skill-based, and tactical performance of basketball players, particularly in the youth category. This is due to the nature of basketball, which is characterized by high speed in transitioning between offensive and defensive situations, as well as the execution of complex skills under the pressure of competition.
The researcher adopted the experimental method using a one-group design, as it is appropriate to the nature of the research problem and its objectives. The research population consisted of Iraqi Youth Basketball League players aged 16 to under 18 years. This age group is considered one of the stages that witnesses noticeable development in players’ physical and skill abilities.
The research sample was intentionally selected from the basketball players of Al-Hashd Sports Club. The sample consisted of 12 players, aged between 16 and under 18 years. This sample was carefully selected to suit the objectives of the study and to provide an appropriate group for participation in the proposed training program.
The study focused on demonstrating the role of these formations in improving the movement of the defensive player, increasing his ability to adopt correct positioning, and enhancing his ability to read the opponent’s movements. In addition, it aimed to develop the accuracy of performance in basic offensive skills such as passing, dribbling, and jump shooting.
The results showed that adopting group training based on various offensive and defensive formations contributes effectively to improving response speed and neuromuscular coordination. This positively reflects on the efficiency of the team’s collective performance and the speed of transition between different playing situations. This type of training also helped enhance cooperation and coordination among players during the execution of tactical duties on the court.
The study recommends the necessity of incorporating offensive and defensive formations into training programs designed for youth players, due to their important role in building the skill-based and tactical foundation of players and preparing them to reach advanced levels of athletic performance in later stages

The research objectives were as follows:
To identify the level of refereeing performance in volleyball and the intellectual competence and mental alertness of students; to identify the correlation and contribution percentages between the level of refereeing performance in volleyball and intellectual competence and mental alertness; and to derive the predictive equation for these variables. he descriptive approach was used with the survey method and correlational relationships to suit the nature of the research. The research population was the third-year students in the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at Diyala University for the academic year (2025-2026). The research sample was selected randomly at a rate of (15%) from each section, as the sample number was (40) students. The selection of the level of refereeing performance was used in addition to the two scales of intellectual efficiency and mental alertness. After presenting and analyzing the data, a set of conclusions were reached, which were as follows: The research sample is characterized by a good level of refereeing performance in volleyball, as well as intellectual efficiency and mental alertness. In addition to the existence of a correlation and effective contribution ratios between the variables, and in light of the conclusions reached, a set of recommendations was made, which included emphasizing the use of the volleyball refereeing performance level selection form during the practical lessons in the volleyball subject for third-stage students, as well as emphasizing the development of skills and dimensions of intellectual competence that include (mental competence, physical competence, competence of the worker with others), as well as mental alertness skills that include (awareness, flexibility in awareness and attention, continuity in awareness and attention.

The current research aims to trace the historical and analytical path of technology's impact on the physical education system, from primitive tools to artificial intelligence and virtual reality applications. The descriptive-analytical and historical methods were used due to their relevance to the study's nature. The research goal was to highlight how modern technologies have changed the philosophy of sports teaching and methods of physical measurement and evaluation. The findings revealed that technological development is no longer a complementary addition but has become a fundamental pillar in individualizing sports education and enhancing motor performance. The research recommended integrating technical culture into physical education teacher preparation programs.

This research aims to design a rehabilitation program using massage to improve muscle tension points. It also seeks to identify the program's effect on improving these points, specifically by enhancing the following variables: range of motion in the neck region and muscle strength in the neck muscles. The researchers employed an experimental approach, deemed suitable for the nature of the research, and utilized a pre-test/post-test design with a single experimental group. A purposive sample of 14 fencers under the age of 23 from the Army Sports Club was selected. The research sample was divided into (8) players for the exploratory study, and (6) players for the main study and application of the program to them. One of the most important results was that the rehabilitation program using (massage) led to an improvement in the range of motion and muscle strength of the wheelchair fencing players, category A. One of the most important recommendations was the necessity of being guided by the rehabilitation program under study and what it contains when treating neck and shoulder pain.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of multidirectional skill drills on developing leg explosive power and improving zigzag dribbling skills of basketball players. The researcher adopted an experimental approach using a two-group design (experimental and control) with pre- and post-tests, appropriate to the research problem and the sample. The research sample consisted of 22 players aged 16-17 years from the specialized basketball center in Diyala Governorate. They were divided into two equivalent groups: an experimental group of 10 players and a control group of 10 players. After excluding two players due to non-compliance with training sessions, a pilot study was conducted on two players outside the research sample. The results, after statistical analysis, showed that multidirectional skill drills were more effective in improving power. Explosive leg drills and the development of the zigzag dribble skill were compared to traditional drills. The experimental group showed significant differences in the post-tests, indicating that incorporating these drills into training programs effectively contributes to developing rapid muscle strength and improving young players’ motore skills. This enhances the players’ ability to execute complex skills during games. Therefore, it is recommended to regularly use multi-directional skill drills within the training sessions of young basketball players to improve their motor and skill performance.

Tennis is a sport that has witnessed remarkable development in recent years due to advancements in various sports sciences, particularly sports training science, motor learning, and physiology. This has contributed to improving the technical performance of players. This development is closely linked to the development of specific physical abilities, given their active role in enhancing skill performance, especially in fundamental and crucial skills such as the serve, which requires a high degree of accuracy, coordination, and fluidity. The use of coordination exercises with added weights is a modern training method that contributes to improving the quality of motor performance by enhancing the harmony between body parts during skill execution. This research aimed to identify the effect of coordination exercises with added weights on enhancing the fluidity of the tennis serve, as measured by electromyography (EMG). The researcher used an experimental design with a single group and pre- and post-tests, and implemented the training program on a sample of six players from the specialized tennis center in Baghdad. Electromyography (EMG) was used to measure the electrical activity of the muscles involved during the serve, specifically the deltoid, triceps, and calf muscles. The results showed statistically significant differences between the pre-test and post-test scores, favoring the post-test scores, in the peak electrical activity of the targeted muscles. This indicates improved fluidity and muscular efficiency during the serve. Furthermore, coordination exercises using added weights and light resistance contributed to a high degree of upper and lower limb coordination, which positively impacted the economy of movement and improved the players' skill performance. The researcher concluded that coordination exercises with added weights are an effective training method for enhancing fluidity in tennis serve execution, as indicated by electromyography (EMG).

This research aims to analyze the biomechanical variables of the Moy skill on the parallel bars and to reveal the nature of the relationship between these variables and the physical strength and motor balance variables of junior gymnasts. The researcher adopted a descriptive-correlational approach, and the research sample included (6) gymnasts proficient in performing the Moy skill. Their performance was analyzed using high-speed cameras and the Kinovea motion analysis software to obtain accurate data on joint angles, linear and angular velocities, acceleration, vertical displacement of the center of gravity, and torque. Physical tests were also conducted, including strength endurance, speed-strength, explosive leg power, and maximum strength using a dynamometer, in addition to static and motor balance tests. The results showed good homogeneity among the players in most physical and kinesthetic variables. They also revealed strong inverse correlations between the movement time of the moy skill and physical strength variables, with maximum strength showing the strongest inverse correlation with time (r = -0.82). Moderate to strong positive correlations were also found between vertical displacement of the center of gravity, angular velocity, linear velocities, and vertical acceleration, on the one hand, and physical strength variables, on the other. The correlation results indicated that balance—especially motor balance—is strongly linked to biomechanical variables, particularly the linear velocity of the feet (r = 0.69), vertical acceleration, and torque, demonstrating its importance in controlling movement during the performance phases. Multiple regression analysis showed that maximum angular velocity and vertical displacement of the center of gravity are the two variables most likely to predict the movement time of the performance, together explaining 79% of the variance in performance quality. These results indicate that the skillful execution of the moy depends on the integration of muscular strength, motor balance, and biomechanical variables that determine the trajectory of movement and the effectiveness of the transition to the support position. The research concludes that it is essential to focus on developing maximum strength and speed-strength, improving angular velocity and control of the center of gravity, and enhancing motor balance in gymnasts' training programs, given their pivotal role in improving skill performance on the parallel bars.

This research aims to identify the contribution of certain body measurements, physical fitness abilities, and kinematic variables to the performance of the overhand serve, and to establish them as scientific indicators in the volleyball player selection process. The researcher used a descriptive approach with correlational analysis. The research sample consisted of (25) fourth-year secondary school students aged (16-17) years. The research instruments included body measurements, physical fitness tests, and kinematic analysis of the overhand serve performance. The results showed statistically significant positive correlations between anthropometric measurements (total height, arm length, upper arm circumference) and kinematic variables (ball release angle, elbow angle) and serving performance. The results also indicated that physical abilities, particularly explosive arm power, significantly contributed to explaining skill performance. The researcher concluded that considering these variables is crucial in sports selection and training processes, given their active role in improving the skill performance of volleyball players.

This research aims to identify the impact of using educational exercises based on Zahorik's model on students learning the dribbling and passing skills in basketball. The importance of this research stems from the need to adopt modern educational methods that contribute to developing the motor learning process. Relying on traditional teaching methods may not achieve the required level in learning basic skills, which necessitates employing organized educational models that help learners acquire the skill more effectively. As an educational model, Zahorik's model relies on organizing the learning steps by preparing learners and stimulating their prior experiences. Introducing new experiences and applying them practically contribute to improving the understanding of the skill and mastering its performance.
To achieve the research objectives, the researcher used an experimental design with two groups: an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group was taught exercises based on Zahorik's model, while the control group continued learning using the teacher's standard teaching method. To measure that, skill tests were administered before and after the training program.
The results showed statistically significant differences in the skill acquisition of dribbling and passing in basketball between the two groups, favoring the experimental group. This indicates the effectiveness of the Zahorik-based training exercises in improving the learning of basic skills. The researcher attributes this to the structured learning phases of the model, which facilitate organized learning and allow students to actively participate during performance.
Based on these findings, the researcher recommends adopting Zahorik's model for teaching basic basketball skills due to its positive results on developing motor learning. Furthermore, the researcher suggests conducting similar studies on other sports skills and at different educational levels

This research aims to identify the effect of a rehabilitation program based on motor control exercises and progressive overload in reducing pain intensity and improving functional ability among amateur weightlifters suffering from lower back pain. The researcher used an experimental design with two groups (experimental and control) using pre- and post-testing. The sample consisted of (20) amateur weightlifters from Al-Muqdadiyah district, randomly assigned to two groups of (10) players. The program was implemented with the experimental group for (8) weeks, with (3) sessions per week, in a training hall in Al-Muqdadiyah district, according to a standardized protocol and under the researcher's supervision. The control group continued with the usual method without the proposed program components. Measurements included the numerical pain scale (0–10) and the lumbar sacral index. The results showed statistically significant differences favoring the experimental group in the post-test measurements of pain intensity and lumbar sluggishness index compared to the control group (p<0.001). The researcher concludes that the proposed program contributes to reducing pain and improving functional ability in this group.

The importance of the present study comes from its vital role of balance in successful artistic performance in gymnastics. As a fundamental variable requiring a high degree of motor control and neuromuscular stability, it is a crucial determinant of competitive achievement. The significance of the study is further highlighted by the focus on a modern training trend; training on unstable surfaces. The study aims at developing unstable surface training exercises to improve balance and the performance of certain rhythmic gymnastics skills and also to identify the impact of unstable surface training on these improvements. The researcher employs an experimental design with a single pre- and post-test system. The research population consisted of third-year female students from the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at Samarra University during the academic year 2025-2026. The research sample, comprising 12 students, was selected randomly. The field research procedures included conducting experiments and tests such as static balance (standing with the foot crossed on the bar) and motor balance (eighth figure). The study also assessed the artistic performance of certain rhythmic gymnastics skills. (Scissor vault, gazelle vault, step vault, cat vault), the training period extended between (8) weeks and at a rate of (2) training units per week, and the time of the unit ranged between (45–60) minutes, so that the total training dose reached (18) training units during the application period. The researcher concluded that the training program using unstable surfaces proved to be highly effective in developing the special balance of rhythmic gymnasts, through the statistically significant increase in the results of the post-tests compared to the pre-tests in all the variables under study. Training on unstable surfaces contributed to improving the technical performance of some rhythmic gymnastics skills (figure octagon – scissor vault – gazelle vault – step vault – cat vault), which indicates a positive correlation between improving balance and improving the quality of skill performance. It is recommended that training on unstable surfaces be included in the preparation programs for rhythmic gymnasts, given its effective role in developing balance and skill performance.

This research aimed at identifying the effect of programmed repetitive training according to the High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT-Plyometric Training) system on developing motor agility, motor balance, and shooting skills in handball among young players. The researchers used an experimental approach with two groups (experimental and control). The research sample consisted of (16) players from Salah Al-Din Club. It is divided randomly into two equivalent groups. The experimental group underwent a training program using high-intensity interval training (HIIT), while the control group continued traditional training. The zigzag run test, the modified PASS test, and the shooting test were used to measure the research variables. The results showed statistically significant differences in favor of the experimental group in all variables. The researchers concluded that high-intensity interval training is effective in developing the physical and technical abilities of young handball players.

The research aimed to use an aid in learning the straight punch skill among second-year students at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Diyala. The study also aims at identifying the effect of an aid in learning the straight punch skill among second-year students at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Diyala. The researcher used the experimental method with a pre-test and post-test design for two experimental and control groups. The research community included second-year students at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Diyala, for the academic year 2024/2025. The sample is totaling (405) male students distributed across (8) sections. The research sample was selected randomly consisting of 92 students from sections (D, E). After excluding students who practiced the sport, did not adhere to the curriculum, failed, or postponed, the final number of the research sample became (80) students, who were divided into two groups, experimental and control, with (40) students in each group. Section (D) represented the experimental group and Section (E) represented the control group. They represented (19.75%) of the original community, and the researcher concluded that the use of aid devices in learning the straight punch skill in boxing greatly contributed to improving the performance of students on both sides (right and left). The experimental group showed a remarkable improvement in performance compared to the control group, which indicates the effectiveness of aid devices in enhancing fine motor skills. The researcher recommends expanding the use of aid devices in educational curricula, especially in boxing, and technological devices such as strength and timing measuring devices which should be integrated into the educational system in universities and sports institutes.

The research aims to develop training units to improve some physical abilities in young athletes in the discus throw performance and to identify the extent of the effect of using the exercises prepared for some physical abilities in the experimental research sample on the discus throw performance. The researcher prepared training units that included exercises he prepared with different weights in order to develop some physical abilities. The training units were applied on a sample of young athletes from Diyala Athletics Club as an experimental group for six weeks, two training units per week. Pre- and post-tests were conducted for both the experimental and control groups. The researcher concluded that there was a positive effect of the training units on developing the discus throw due to the development of strength and speed in the experimental group. The researcher recommends the necessity of using the exercises prepared by the researcher that contributed to developing some physical fitness abilities and the discus throw activity.

This research aimed to develop educational units using artificial intelligence techniques to teach defensive boxing skills to second-year students at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Karbala, based on the importance of integrating modern technology into the learning process.
The experimental method was used to be applicable to the nature of the research. The research sample consisted of (40) second-year students in the morning program. They are divided randomly into two equivalent groups. The experimental group learned using an interactive educational program supported by artificial intelligence algorithms, which lasted for (8) weeks, one unit per a week. The control group received instruction according to the curriculum used by the teacher. Pre-tests were administered to both research groups in boxing defensive skills (arm defense, torso defense, and foot defense). Then, the main experiment was conducted. After completing the learning units, post-tests were administered. Data were collected and analyzed statistically using the (SPSS) statistical software. After statistical processing and the appearance of the results, the researcher concluded that the educational program using artificial intelligence techniques influenced the learning of defensive skills (arm defense, torso defense, and foot defense). The experimental group showed a greater impact than the control group in learning the variables under investigation. Therefore, the researcher recommends the necessity of using educational units designed by using artificial intelligence techniques and also use artificial intelligence in learning other games skills.

This study aims at identifying the relationship between bodily-kinesthetic intelligence and spike performance among players of Akad Club participating in the 2024-2025 Premier League in volleyball. The research hypotheses were as follows: There is a statistically significant correlation between bodily-kinesthetic intelligence and the spiking performance of the players from Akkad Club participating in the 2024-2025 Premier League.
The researchers used the descriptive correlational method, as it was suitable for the nature of the study. The research sample consisted of (14) players from Akkad Club participating in the Premier League for the (2024-2025) volleyball season. They were selected purposively, and (4) players were excluded for a pilot study. The researchers concluded that the research sample possessed a good level of bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, reflecting the players' high levels of motor control. They also found a statistically significant correlation between bodily-kinesthetic intelligence and performance in the diagonal spike, indicating that a high level of bodily-kinesthetic intelligence directly contributes to improve the offensive skill performance. Therefore, bodily-kinesthetic intelligence can be considered an important scientific indicator in the selection process for volleyball players, particularly in offensive skills. The researchers recommended adopting a bodily-kinesthetic intelligence scale as a supporting scientific tool within volleyball player selection and classification programs. They also recommended integrating kinesthetic perception training and situational exercises that simulate match conditions into training units to develop the integration between bodily-kinesthetic intelligence and skill performance. Finally, the researchers advised coaches to adopt a comprehensive approach to multiple intelligences when preparing training programs, rather than focusing solely on physical aspects.

This study aimed at developing ballistic training methods using a circular technique, focusing on a
The importance of this research lies in the use of fast-playing football technique, as it moves away from monotonous training and increases the efficiency of players' physiological responses to suit the rhythm of matches. Furthermore, it presents a modern training model (fast-playing) that aligns with the demands of modern football which relies on rapid transitions and high pressing. In addition, it seeks to integrate the development of physiological responses (physiological variables) within a competitive framework that enhances player motivation. This research aims at identifying the effect of fast-paced play trainings on certain physiological variables in young football players. The researcher employs an experimental design with two groups: an experimental group and a control group. The research community consisted of young players from clubs in Wasit Governorate. Pre-tests were conducted, and fast-paced play drills were implemented according to the scientific principles of football training. Post-tests were administered, and the test data was statistically analyzed. After discussing and analyzing the results, the researcher concluded that fast-paced play drills are not merely a means of developing technical or tactical skills, but proves to be a pivotal training tool for improving the functional efficiency of young football players.

This research aims at identifying communication skills and their relationship to improving the institutional performance of sports clubs in Diyala Governorate. Communication skills are of high importance in developing administrative work and enhancing performance efficiency within sports institutions. Administrative communication is one of the fundamental pillars that contribute to the transfer of information, the clarification of instructions, and the strengthening of coordination between different administrative levels, which positively impacts the level of institutional performance. The researcher adopts the descriptive approach with its correlational method, as it is suitable for the nature of the study. A questionnaire is prepared to collect data from the research sample consisting of (65) employees and administrators in sports clubs in Diyala Governorate. The research was conducted using a random sampling method from the clubs of Diyala, Al-Khalis, Hibhib, Khanaqin, and Al-Muqdadiyah. The research instrument included two main sections: communication skills and institutional performance. The data are analyzed using a set of appropriate statistical methods. The research results show a significant positive relationship between the dimensions of communication skills (effective listening skills, clarity of message and expression, feedback, dialogue management and conflict resolution) and the dimensions of institutional performance in the sports clubs of Diyala Governorate (administrative and organizational efficiency, planning and decision-making, quality of performance and institutional achievement, institutional relations and the organizational environment). Accordingly, the researcher has recommended the necessity of developing communication skills in sports administrations through training programs and specialized workshops, in addition to strengthening communication means within sports clubs in a way that contributes to improving the level of institutional performance and a prominant administrative achievments in sports.