Browsing by Author "Solomons, Jocelyn"

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    The effect of a rhythmic movement intervention on selected bio-motor skills of academy players in the Western Cape, South Africa
    (SAGE, 2020) Solomons, Jocelyn; Kraak, Wilbur Julio; Kidd, Martin; Africa, Eileen Katherine
    Rhythmic movement, also referred to as “dance”, involves the execution of different motor skills as well as the integration and sequencing of actions between limbs, timing and spatial precision. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate and compare the effect of a 16-week rhythmic movement intervention on flexibility, dynamic balance, agility, power and local muscular endurance of academy rugby players in the Western Cape, according to positional group. Players (N=54) (age 18.66 ± 0.81 years; height 1.76 ± 0.69 cm; weight 76.77 ± 10.69 kg), were randomly divided into a treatment-control [TCA] (n=28) and a control-treatment [CTB] (n=26) group. In this crossover experimental design, the interaction effect of the treatment order and the treatment time between the TCA and CTB group, was determined. Results indicated a statistically significant improvement (p<0.05) in agility2 (p=0.06), power2 (p=0.05), local muscular endurance1 (p=0.01) & 3 (p=0.01) and dynamic balance (p<0.01). Likewise, forwards and backs also showed statistically significant improvements (p<0.05) per positional groups. Therefore, a rhythmic movement intervention has the potential to improve rugby-specific bio-motor skills and furthermore, improve positional specific skills should it be designed with positional groups in mind. Future studies should investigate, not only the effect of rhythmic movement on improving specific rugby bio-motor skills, but the potential of its application as an alternative training method during off-season (or detraining phases) or as a recovery method.
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    The effect of a rhythmic movement intervention on selected bio-motor skills of Western Province rugby academy players
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2020-03) Solomons, Jocelyn; Africa, Eileen Katherine; Kraak, Wilbur; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Sport Science.
    ENGLISH SUMMARY : The inclusion of other non-traditional approaches to training has become more popular within rugby conditioning. Rhythmic movement, also referred to as “dance”, involves the execution of different motor skills, the integration and sequencing of actions between limbs, timing and spatial precision. It requires performing movement tasks to auditory rhythmic patterns and as a multifaceted activity, it depends on a large number of elements with direct and indirect effects on the physiology and physical attributes of a player. In terms of rugby conditioning the common belief dictates that fitness or conditioning elements should be developed through focused, isolated training blocks. The technical, tactical and physical conditioning for rugby has primarily consisted of traditional, rugby-based approaches to training as indicated by the majority of current research. However, in order for rugby coaches and specialist coaches to gain a competitive edge over opposing teams, they need to find new innovative ways to adapt their training methods and programmes in order to accommodate the changes to the profile of the game. The primary aim was to investigate the effect of a rhythmic movement intervention on selected bio-motor skills of rugby players in the Western Province Rugby Union Academy. The first objective of the study was to investigate the effect of a 16-week rhythmic movement intervention on flexibility, dynamic balance, agility, power and local muscular endurance of these rugby players. The second objective was to compare selected bio-motor skills of backs and forwards after participating in a 16-week rhythmic movement intervention. The thesis followed a research article format. Article one addressed both objectives of the study. A positive treatment effect on the bio-motor skills was found because was a statistically significant increase in performance after treatment was implemented, based on the treatment-order and treatment time-interaction (p=≤0.05). The major finding of this study was that when treatment was implemented a statistically significant difference was observed in the bio-motor skills. Among these bio-motor skills were agility, power, local muscular endurance and some dynamic balance directions. The results among the entire population showed that power1 & 2 (seated medicine ball throw and vertical jump) and local muscular endurance2, 3 & 4 (2-minute crunch, pull-up to failure and single leg squat to failure), as well some dynamic balance directions (anterior, anteromedial, posteromedial, posterior, posterolateral direction and medial) improved significantly. Furthermore, among forwards and backs, agility1 (Illinois without ball) and power1 (seated medicine ball throw) showed statistically significant improvements (p=≤0.05). In summary, among the entire sample of participants, power1, 2 and local muscular endurance2,3,4 ,as well some dynamic balance directions (anterior, anteromedial, posteromedial, posterior, posterolateral direction and medial), showed statistically significant improvements (p=≤0.05) from pre- to post-treatment. Amongst forwards and backs, agility1 and power1 showed statistically significant improvements (p=≤0.05). Rhythmic movements can be adapted in various ways in terms of music and movements to accommodate not only the rugby players, but also rugby-orientated movements. Additionally, a rhythmic movement intervention can be used right throughout the season with adaptations to intensity according to the demands of the training phase. For this reason, multiple bio-motor skills can be trained simultaneously, which is advantageous to a demanding rugby-training schedule. In other words, rhythmic movements can be used as a tool to warm-up, as a conditioning method to improve specific bio-motor skills or, when required, as a recovery method for players. It is recommended that, in order to observe benefits from a rhythmic movement intervention, the rhythmic movement should include and cater for the positional demands of rugby players. Furthermore, the rhythmic movement intervention should be implemented throughout the entire rugby season in order to be as effective as possible. Literature has shown physical, psychophysical and ergogenic benefits of music on performance. Therefore, it is recommended that rhythmic movements be used as an alternative training method during off-season (or detraining phases), and as a recovery method. A rhythmic movement intervention, such as this will assist coaches and trainers, who are frequently searching for new novel ways to improve performance, to implement an alternative training strategy to their strength and conditioning programmes.
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    Exploring stakeholders' perceptions on the status of women's rugby development in South Africa
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2023-12) Solomons, Jocelyn; Kraak, Wilbur; Bekker, Sheree; Groom, Ryan; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences. Dept. of Exercise, Sport and Lifestyle Medication.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Over the past 7 years, Women's Rugby has experienced remarkable global growth, marked by increased participation and a rise in tournaments. However, despite these advancements, the sport has received limited attention regarding women's participation, primarily due to historical and societal barriers. These barriers include the perception of rugby as a men’s-only sport, limited resources for female players, and societal discouragement. To comprehensively explore the challenges faced by South African Women's Rugby, this study collected qualitative data through online interviews, focus group discussions, and in-person observations, while considering stakeholders' (players, coaches, support staff (i.e., team doctor, physiotherapist, biokineticist, sport psychologist) and administrators (team managers and team/club administrators) perceptions and the impacts of historical and cultural factors. The findings uncovered significant challenges in overcoming gender-role expectations and gaining acceptance in a society that predominantly views rugby as masculine. To address these challenges, the study recommends that Women's Rugby coaches continually improve coaching practices by embracing experimentation, feedback, and reflection. Special considerations should be given to coaching Women's Rugby in South Africa, considering players' late entry and diverse sporting backgrounds. Integrating ethics and professionalism into coaching development frameworks is crucial. Moreover, the study emphasises the critical importance of the coach-athlete relationship, highlighting individual differences, and attachment styles. Effective communication, trust-building, and mutual support play key roles in creating an environment where players feel valued and motivated to excel. The coach-athlete relationship maximises performance and overall well-being. Both coaches and players must actively contribute to prioritising and nurturing this relationship, leading to effective coaching and improved player performance. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the challenges faced by participants in South African Women's Rugby and offers recommendations for improvement. Shifting gender-role expectations, dispelling stereotypes, and increasing media exposure are pivotal in promoting Women's Rugby as a popular and viable sport. Continuous improvement in coaching practices and the implementation of tailored coach development programs are crucial. Fostering effective communication, trust, and support within the coach-athlete relationship can contribute to the growth and success of Women's Rugby in South Africa. Implementing these recommendations will help South African Women's Rugby overcome historical, cultural, and economic barriers, creating a more inclusive and prosperous future for the sport. This will benefit players, coaches, administrators, and Women's Rugby as a whole.