ABSTRACT
Analysis of sports performance is the focal point of the coaching process. Coaching is a deliberate act of intervention in sport with the intention of improving performance. Any review of the literature highlights the importance of feedback in this process. It is likely that the most accurate means by which this can be achieved is through the use of a specific notational analysis system. Since the first tentative stages of notational analysis in the mid-1970's, considerable effort has been made to refine its procedures and develop a methodology that is consistent, reliable and valid. Many procedures have been developed, ranging from simple, fast and accurate hand notation systems, to very complex interactive systems using computers, video and a different interfaces. Research has mainly focused on descriptive studies concerning patterns of play (Sanderson 1983; Franks et al., 1983; Hughes, 1985; Hughes, 1986) but little effort has been made to assess the feasibility of applying notation systems into a real sporting environment on a long term basis. The role of qualitative feedback in the learning process has been well researched and documented (Schmidt, 1982; Salmoni et al., 1984; Wood et al., 1992).
