Perspectives of Elite Athletes on the Influence of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the Development of Sports: A Case Study of Football Athletes
Chapter One
Purpose of the Study
The overarching aim of this research is to critically analyze the perspective of elite football athletes regarding the influence of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology on the development of the sport. This comprehensive investigation seeks to delve into the experiences of elite athletes in the context of VAR implementation, aiming to contribute valuable insights to the broader understanding of the evolving relationship between technology and football.
- To Examine Elite Football Athletes’ Perceptions of VAR Implementation
- To Assess the Impact of VAR on the Performance and Strategies of Elite Football Athletes
- To Explore the Attitudes of Elite Football Athletes Towards the Use of VAR in Match Officiation
- To Identify Any Challenges or Benefits Perceived by Elite Football Athletes in Relation to VAR
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEWED OF RELATED LITERATURE
VAR in football
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system has revolutionized football by introducing technological assistance to match officials. Developed to minimize errors in crucial decisions, VAR has become an integral part of the game. It was conceived as a response to high-profile controversies and instances of human error in refereeing, aiming to enhance the fairness and accuracy of football matches (IFAB, 2022).
VAR operates by using video technology to review key incidents during a match, such as goals, penalty decisions, red card offenses, and cases of mistaken identity. The system involves a team of VAR officials stationed in a central control room, who have access to multiple camera angles and replays to assist the on-field referee in making informed decisions (IFAB, 2017).
Since its inception, VAR has undergone extensive testing and refinement through trials in various competitions worldwide. Its official introduction in 2018 marked a significant milestone in the evolution of football officiating, with the system now widely adopted across professional leagues and international tournaments (FIFA, 2022).
Despite its intended benefits, the implementation of VAR has sparked debates and controversies within the football community. Critics argue that VAR disrupts the flow of matches, leads to lengthy delays, and undermines the authority of match officials. However, proponents highlight its potential to correct clear and obvious errors, uphold the integrity of the game, and provide greater fairness to all teams (IFAB, 2022).
History and evolution of VAR in football
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system was introduced to football to assist on-field match officials in making correct decisions during games. It was first officially implemented by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) in 2018, following extensive trials in various competitions (FIFA, 2022). Significance of VAR in modern football VAR represents a significant advancement in the sport, aiming to minimize errors in crucial decisions such as goals, penalties, red cards, and mistaken identity (The IFAB, 2017). Its introduction was intended to enhance fairness and accuracy, thereby improving the overall quality and integrity of football matches (IFAB, 2022).
History and evolution of VAR in football The concept of video technology assisting referees in football matches has been in development since the early 2000s. However, it wasn’t until the 2010s that significant progress was made towards its implementation (IFAB, 2022). The idea gained momentum following high-profile incidents of refereeing errors in major competitions, prompting calls for technological intervention to minimize such occurrences (IFAB, 2017).
The first major trial of VAR took place during the 2016 Club World Cup in Japan, where it was used to review potential goals, penalties, red cards, and cases of mistaken identity (IFAB, 2022). Subsequent trials in various leagues and tournaments worldwide led to the official approval of VAR by IFAB in 2018, making it a permanent fixture in professional football (FIFA, 2022).
Despite its initial skepticism and challenges regarding implementation and interpretation, VAR has become an integral part of modern football, with ongoing efforts to refine its usage and address concerns raised by stakeholders (IFAB, 2022).
Chapter Three
Research methodology
Research Design
The research design adopted in this research work is the survey research design which involves the usage of self-designed questionnaire in the collection of data. Under the survey research design, primary data of this study will be collected from Ministry of sports, Lagos state in order to determine perspective of elite athletes of the influence of var on the development of sport: football athletes as case study. The design was chosen because it enables the researcher to collect data without manipulation of any variables of interest in the study. The design also provides opportunity for equal chance of participation in the study for respondents.
Population of Study
The population of the study will be 70 staff of ministry of sports in Lagos state
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION
This chapter is about the analysis and presentation of data collected from the field through questionnaire. The analysis of the data with particular question immediately followed by the presentation of findings.
As mentioned in chapter three, 75 questionnaires were administered and 50 were retrieved and necessary analysis was carried out on them and presented as follows:
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain perspective of elite athletes of the influence of var on the development of sport: football athletes as case study. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing perspective of elite athletes of the influence of var on the development of sport
Summary
This study was on perspective of elite athletes of the influence of var on the development of sport: football athletes as case study. Four objectives were raised which included: To Examine Elite Football Athletes’ Perceptions of VAR Implementation, to Assess the Impact of VAR on the Performance and Strategies of Elite Football Athletes, to Explore the Attitudes of Elite Football Athletes Towards the Use of VAR in Match Officiation and to Identify Any Challenges or Benefits Perceived by Elite Football Athletes in Relation to VAR. The total population for the study is 75 workers at ministry of sports. The researcher used questionnaires as the instrument for the data collection. Descriptive Survey research design was adopted for this study. The data collected were presented in tables and analyzed using simple percentages and frequencies
Conclusion
In conclusion, the perspectives of elite football athletes on the influence of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) on the development of the sport reveal a nuanced landscape of both challenges and benefits. While athletes acknowledge the potential for VAR to enhance fairness, accuracy, and professionalism in officiating, they also express concerns about its impact on the flow of the game, the subjectivity of decisions, and the emotional dynamics on the field. Despite these challenges, athletes recognize the importance of adapting to VAR’s presence in football and advocate for improvements in its implementation and operation. Ultimately, understanding elite athletes’ perspectives on VAR is essential for navigating the evolving landscape of football officiating and ensuring that the sport continues to thrive while maintaining its integrity and competitiveness in the modern era.
Recommendation
Based on the findings of the study on the perspectives of elite football athletes regarding the influence of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) on the development of the sport, the following recommendations are proposed:
- Football governing bodies should prioritize ongoing efforts to refine the implementation of VAR technology. This includes addressing technical issues, streamlining the review process, and enhancing communication between on-field officials and VAR operators to minimize disruptions and optimize decision-making efficiency.
- There is a need for greater standardization and consistency in the application of VAR protocols across different leagues and competitions. Establishing clear guidelines and criteria for VAR reviews, as well as providing training for officials and athletes, can help promote uniformity and fairness in officiating decisions.
- Enhancing transparency and communication surrounding VAR decisions is crucial for building trust and credibility among athletes, teams, and fans. Football authorities should explore ways to provide more detailed explanations of VAR rulings, including the use of video replays and audio communication with on-field officials, to ensure greater clarity and understanding.
- Athletes should receive comprehensive education and training on how to adapt their playing style and strategies to accommodate the presence of VAR in football. This includes understanding the implications of VAR rulings, managing emotions during VAR reviews, and maintaining focus and discipline on the field despite potential disruptions.
References
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- Alsaqri, A., Almutairi, S., Almeshary, S., Alqadhib, M., & Rahman, A. (2020). Players’ Perceptions on the Implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in Football Matches. International Journal of Engineering and Information Systems (IJEAIS), 4(1), 10-15.
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- FIFA. (2022). VAR Background. Retrieved from https://www.fifa.com/who-we-are/news/video-assistant-referees-var-background
