Diversity of scoring, ingenuity of striking, art of flying — conceptual and systematical identification of soccer scoring techniques

Abstract

The terms of soccer scoring techniques (SSTs) used in practice and research have been remaining confusing; even dramatic, we still do not know how many SSTs available for the game. This scenario hinders not only the scientific studies on some unique SSTs but also the development of novel coaching methods for learning these SSTs. The current paper aims to bridge the gap by establishing a SST terminology system. The system is built based on goal repeatability, selected anatomical & biomechanical parameters, and analyses of 579 attractive goals from international professional tournaments. The results have revealed that there are 43 SSTs existed in current soccer practice. Some SSTs can be identified by preliminary parameters (i.e. anatomical parameters, the ball vertical position at the shot and the hit-point on the ball), but most of them need additional biomechanical examination on the movement control in frontal & transverse planes, jumping control, and trunk orientation at shots in order to identify uniquely. Further, the new SST terminology has disclosed that soccer attractiveness is linked to the diversity, ingenuity and artistry of shots. The most attractive type of scoring awaited by millions of spectators is aerial shots. Lastly, the most important contribution of the new SST terminology system is to help researchers and practitioners launch target-orientated studies that would provide a practical and convincing scientific coach-method, clear definitions, and means to reevaluate and improve SSTs in practice.

Performance Alteration Induced by Weight Cutting in Mixed Martial Arts—A Biomechanical Pilot Investigation

“…The 3D motion capture and biomechanical modeling were used to quantify striking power and accuracy [ 24 ]. The use of motion-capture permits allowed considerable freedom of movement without influencing the accuracy of data [ 32 , 33 , 34 , 35 ], so no restrictions were placed on the movement of the subject within the capture volume and subjects could perform without having to alter their normal body control. Using the manufacturer’s specified guidelines, calibration resolution yielded results that were accurate within 1 mm.…”

Soccer Scoring Techniques—A Biomechanical Re-Conception of Time and Space for Innovations in Soccer Research and Coaching

“…Obviously, relying on the aptness of the athletes to improve these virtuosic SSTs can hardly be considered a viable learning or coaching strategy. Worst of all, the terms surrounding SSTs used in practice and research have been confusing [ 10 ]; researchers and practitioners are not sure how many SSTs are available for the game. This scenario hinders not only the scientific studies on many exceptional SSTs but also the development of novel coaching methods for learning these SSTs.…”

“…Through systematic identification, a recent study [ 10 ] has revealed that there are 43 SSTs that exist in current soccer games. Surprisingly, there are only a handful of SSTs documented in the existing training/coaching literature and, consequently, the comprehensive list of SST training is presently limited to maximal instep kick (including the curled kick), jumping headers, and volley/side volleys [ 12 , 13 , 14 ].…”

“…At the practical level, celebrations of the goal of the month, of the season, of the year, and of the decade, are widely adopted in professional soccer leagues for recognizing players who are deemed to have scored the “most beautiful goal” [ 10 ]. Those glorious goals are normally chosen by a combination of panel experts and a public vote.…”

“…What is needed for establishing a scientific training system is the knowledge of the biomechanical parameters that influence the quality of the soccer shots. Unfortunately, most of the 43 SSTs [ 10 ] identified so far are “off the radar” to researchers. The SSTs overlooked in research are normally airborne and/or acrobatic, perceived as high-risk and low-reward.…”