Comparative analysis of sequentiality using SDIS-GSEQ and THEME: a concrete example in soccer.

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Child Development
• Data Analysis

Background:

• Observational studies in youth sports require robust data analysis techniques.
• Soccer adaptations for different age groups are crucial for skill development.
• Sequential pattern analysis helps understand complex behavioral sequences in sports.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of SDIS-GSEQ and THEME software in analyzing sequential patterns in youth soccer data.
• To determine which soccer format (7-a-side, 9-a-side, or 11-a-side) is best suited for 11-12 year olds.
• To validate the congruence between two distinct sequential analysis algorithms.

Main Methods:

• Utilized multicode event data without duration parameters.
• Applied SDIS-GSEQ software with lag technique for sequential pattern detection.
• Employed THEME software to identify T-patterns (temporal patterns) with assigned constant durations.

Main Results:

• Both SDIS-GSEQ and THEME identified corresponding sequential patterns, confirming algorithmic links.
• THEME detected numerous sequential structures, including diachronic and synchronic correspondences.
• 7-a-side and 9-a-side soccer formats were found to enhance children's spatial game mastery compared to 11-a-side soccer.

Conclusions:

• The study validates the congruence between SDIS-GSEQ and THEME analysis techniques.
• 7-a-side and 9-a-side soccer are more developmentally appropriate for 11-12 year olds regarding spatial skills.
• Findings support adapting soccer formats to optimize skill acquisition in young athletes.