SPIKES: Skills and Performance Inventory as Kinesiological Assessment for Empowerment of Sepaktakraw Athletes

Abstract

This research presents a comprehensive assessment of Sepaktakraw athletes at Batangas State University (BatStateU) TNEU, aiming to enhance athlete development through evidence-based methodologies. Recognizing the global trend towards universities' pivotal role in athlete development, the study addresses the diverse landscape of sports programs, particularly focusing on Sepaktakraw in the Philippines. BatStateU's visionary 5-year development plan emphasizes creating champion athletes, aligning with global trends and emphasizing sports infrastructure and training programs. However, the study identifies an opportunity to enhance training programs by introducing the SPIKES program, incorporating kinesiological assessments for a more scientific and tailored approach. Using a descriptive survey methodology, the research integrates Physical Fitness and Skill-specific Performance Tests to evaluate Sepaktakraw athletes comprehensively. Anthropometric profiling revealed diverse body compositions, while physical fitness assessments highlighted variations in speed, agility, strength, and more. Skill-specific performance evaluations in serving, spiking, and game-specific skills provided insights into athletes' proficiency levels. Results categorized athletes into four kinesiological profiles (A, B, C, D), guiding the design of personalized training programs. The Skill-Specific Training Program, unfolding over 12 weeks, targets specific improvements in physical fitness and skills. This evidence-based approach offers a systematic framework for optimizing Sepaktakraw athletes' performance, providing valuable insights for coaches, trainers, and athletes alike. The study not only enhances BatStateU's athlete development initiatives but also serves as a model for personalized and scientifically rigorous training programs in Sepaktakraw and potentially other sports.