Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MSc)

Department

Kinesiology

Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

First Advisor

Dr. Michael Cinelli

Advisor Role

Supervisor

Second Advisor

Dr. Kristine Dalton

Advisor Role

Thesis Advisory Committee Member

Third Advisor

Dr. Mark Eys

Advisor Role

Thesis Advisory Committee Member

Abstract

Sports Vision Training (SVT) is a re-emerging field in athlete training and development that uses protocols designed specifically to improve the visual abilities important in sport performance by creating challenging visual tasks to enhance the processing of visual information and the integration of vision for action (Erickson, 2007). The purpose of this thesis was to evaluate the influence of a generalized visual software-specific SVT program on measures of visual perception related to sports performance. The SVT program consisted of 10 sessions of visual software-specific training focused on improving visual abilities related to the processing and integration of vision for movement. The training program utilized a combination of training methods used previously in research and practice, including stroboscopic training, 3D-multiple object tracking, and cognitive-motor training. Visual perception was assessed at pre-training, post-training, and a 6-week follow-up using three different instruments including the moV& dynamic visual acuity task, the Bassin Anticipation Timer, and the Senaptec Sensory Station. The study revealed significant improvements following the training protocol in the go/no-go and target capture tasks. These findings suggest that SVT may have enhanced athletes’ visual attention and visuomotor coordination/integration as they were better able to detect and recognize targets in the visual field faster and integrate visual information for quick and accurate movements. Furthermore, the improved visual abilities are important for sports and could be an effective intervention to incorporate in performance development for athletes. However, the results were not compared to a control group and were underpowered due to recruitment and technical issues, so further research is required to fully understand the effects of SVT on visual and sports performance.

Convocation Year

2024

Convocation Season

Fall

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