IJCS publication
International Journal of Coaching Science Vol. 5 No. 1 January 2011. pp.57-69
Abstract
The aim of this research was to assess and analyse a large group of practicing coaches’ perceptions of Small-Sided Football (SSF), a modified games-based training and playing format, and whether its implementation throughout the grassroots of Australian Association Football has been effective. A survey was developed and completed by 127 coaches based in the Sydney metropolitan area. The demographic and psychometric data collected indicated that the governing body, Football Federation Australia (FFA), has effectively implemented SSF across the board. This study has shown that more work could be done in the areas of education and training, and the issue of winning versus development. Coaches indicated support of FFA’s philosophy and implementation of SSF, and are willing to adapt and implement the curriculum together with promotion and support of club administrators. Full-text article
Suggested citation
Siokos, A. (2011). Determining the effectiveness of Small-Sided Football (SSF) implementation in metropolitan Association Football. International Journal of Coaching Science, 5(1), 57-69.
Great publication Anthony,
We need far more APPLIED research like this, particularly regarding SSG and their implementation in Australia.
Great work mate
Darren Burgess
Anthony, well done! This is a really valuable contribution to the understanding of the implementation of Small Sided Games and one which should inform future work in this area. It’s very encouraging for the development of the game.
It is also good to see a young Australian researcher and football fan published in a learned Journal, and I encourage you to keep pursuing your work in this field to help improve our understanding of issues from a strong evidence base.
Bonita
Well done Anthony. An outstanding piece of research into an area Australia was struggling to come to terms with culturally, the need to migrate to smaller pitches for young footballers to better learn the game.
Vital in Australia for the football community to have empirical proof to make the important leap of faith, and thankfully SSG has now taken root and after the initial scepticism, is growing strongly.
It is research like yours that adds significant weight to the arguments for change.
I’d love to see further research into other cultural issues within football, so keep at it!
Fozz
Craig Foster
SBS Chief Football Analyst