Author(s): TAKATANI, S., Institution: UNIVERSITY OF TSUKUBA, Country: JAPAN, Abstract-ID: 568

INTRODUCTION:
In recent years, the filming of practices and competitions in many Olympic sports has become commonplace, being utilized for the analysis of athletes techniques and characteristics. It has also become an indispensable tool for athletes and coaches in analyzing rival players techniques, match dynamics, and constructing tactics.
While video analysis is considered a valuable factor in enhancing athletes performance, there have been no initiatives in Japanese wrestling to capitalize on these benefits, and prior research on the utilization of video analysis in competitions or related areas is not evident. The purpose of this study is to gather input from active athletes, coaches, and the wrestling association in Japan to elucidate their impressions, perceived necessity, expectations, and barriers preventing the implementation of video analysis in wrestling.
METHODS:
This study conducted a single 70-minute group focus interview with a total of eight participants, including three athletes with experience in international competitions, three coaches with experience in coaching international development athletes, and two members of the associations strengthening committee. Participants were selected using the purposive sampling method, and prior to the survey, the researchs purpose, objectives, and details regarding recording were explained. Informed consent was obtained before proceeding.
The semi-structured interview consisted of three main questions:
Impression of video analysis
Barriers to video analysis
Expectations for video analysis
Analysis Method: The recorded interview data were transcribed verbatim, and qualitative analysis was conducted using the KJ method to identify and categorize key themes and insights.
RESULTS:
In a survey on video analysis, various opinions were gathered from athletes, coaches, and the association. Despite the absence of prior strategies utilizing video analysis in the sport, all participants expressed the necessity of video analysis in wrestling. However, there is a concern in Japan regarding the prohibition of recording match footage, and even during practice, filming is restricted without the consent of training partners.
CONCLUSION:
In the sport of wrestling, the challenge has been the lack of analysis and implementation of acquired footage, hindering its application in the field. This study aimed to elucidate the awareness, barriers, and expectations regarding video analysis from the perspectives of athletes, coaches, and the wrestling association. As a result, it is believed that the findings can contribute as a stepping stone to enhance the international competitiveness of wrestling in the future.