Preparing Soccer Players with Consideration to the “Stages of Learning” and the “Transfer of Learning”

Abstract

Coaches strive to push athletes toward their full technical and physical potential while surpassing the previous generation of athletes. In doing so, comprehending how to integrate and organize various learning experiences is essential. This article seeks to describe the stages of learning (Fitts & Posner, 1967) and the transfer of learning (Perkins & Salomon, 1992) in relationship to planning and executing a soccer practice schedule. In situations where coaches understand these phenomena, more effective instruction may result and produce a greater service to the athlete. Thus, the purpose of this brief is to recognize how coaches may train athletes more efficiently and prolifically as a means to initiate the transfer of learning from other activities to soccer.