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Expert-novice differences in cognitive and skill execution components of youth baseball performance
K E French1, J H Spurgeon, M E Nevett
1Department of Physical Education, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA.
Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport
|September 1, 1995
Summary
This study found that baseball skill execution in young players, not cognitive skills, best distinguishes expertise levels. Better throwing, fielding, and batting skills indicate higher performance in youth baseball.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Motor Learning
- Youth Sports Development
Background:
- Expertise in youth sports is linked to superior response selection and skill execution.
- Understanding the specific components differentiating skill levels is crucial for targeted training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate differences in cognitive and skill execution between young baseball players of varying expertise.
- To identify which performance components maximally discriminate between low-, average-, and high-skilled players.
Main Methods:
- Observational analysis of videotaped game performance in 159 young baseball players (ages 7-10).
- Measures included skill execution (throwing accuracy/force, fielding, catching, batting) and cognitive aspects (positioning, decisions).
- Players were categorized into low-, average-, and high-skilled groups.
Main Results:
- Skill execution components during game play were the most effective in differentiating expertise levels.
- Specific measures like throwing accuracy, fielding, and batting contact showed significant variations across skill groups.
Conclusions:
- Baseball skill execution is a primary determinant of expertise in young players.
- Focusing on refining fundamental skills is key for developing high-level performance in youth baseball.