Does mentoring coaches on how to implement a Game-Based Approach (GBA) enhance player performance outcomes and perceptions within Gaelic football? Yes. Coaches supporting two squads from a Gaelic football academy underwent a 12- (Under 14) or 18-week (Under 15) intervention. Systematic observations of coaching sessions, quantitative assessment of skill execution and decision-making in assessment games, and qualitative interviews and focus groups with players revealed multiple positive impacts of the GBA intervention. Coaches used more game play and a nonlinear sequence of activities. Players’ game performance showed significant improvement across all decision-making variables. Players appreciated the purposeful organization reflected in a tactical curriculum, aligned conditioned games and explicit connection between tasks fostering knowledge development and reflection. Coaches are encouraged to explore how to implement a GBA effectively within their context.
Kinnerk, P., Kearney, P. E., Harvey, S., & Lyons, M. (2025). Gaelic Football Coaches’ Use of a Game-Based Approach Impacts Game Performance, Session Characteristics, and Player Perceptions. Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, 1–16 [aop]. https://doi.org/10.1080/02701367.2025.2496263
Dr. Phil Kearney is the Course Director of the MSc Applied Sports Coaching within the PESS Department here at the University of Limerick.
View Phil’s profile: https://pure.ul.ie/en/persons/philip-kearney
Email: philip.kearney@ul.ie (for MSc inquiries please email ASC@ul.ie )
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