A pre-longitudinal screen of performance in an integrated assessment of throwing and catching competence

Background: The ability to adapt motor skill performance to a variety of conditions is vital to success in physical activity settings. Valid and reliable measurements of motor competence (MC) are critical for understanding its impact on physical health. Many widely used MC assessments evaluate the performance of isolated motor skills, place performers in highly standardized environments, and limit opportunities to adapt performance. Consequently, evaluations of motor skill performance using these tools may not adequately differentiate motor skill levels. Assessing MC in more dynamic performance contexts may enhance the utility of MC measures.