Effect of Specific Training on Selected Skill Variables of Field Hockey Players

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of specific training on selected skill variables of field hockey players. For the purpose of the study, one hundred male field hockey players aged between 17 to 21 years were selected as subjects. The subjects were randomly divided into two equal groups, namely experimental group (n=50) and control group (n=50). The experimental group underwent a specific training programs for four weeks while the control group did not participate in any special training apart from their regular activities. The selected skill variables were dribbling ability, hitting accuracy, pushing ability and ball control. The tests used were the Akhil Malhotra Field Hockey Skill Test, Chapman Ball Control Test and Schmitz and French Field Hockey Test. Pre-test and post-test data were collected and analyzed using statistical techniques such as mean, standard deviation and ‘t’ test. The results of the study indicated that the specific training programs significantly improved the selected skill variables of field hockey players. It was concluded that a systematic and well-planned training programs plays an important role in enhancing the skill performance of hockey players.