Within the sports coaching literature, game-based approaches (GBAs) have been presented as an alternative instructional model to the traditional or skills-based approach to coaching. GBAs provide a framework for coaches to organise training sessions that emphasise technical skill development and tactical understanding simultaneously through the use of modified and developmentally-appropriate games. These game-forms may include small, medium and large sized games that either replicate the specific rules of competition or are manipulated by the coach to promote certain technical and tactical behaviours. Additionally, GBAs are founded upon sound pedagogical principles and strategies (e.g questioning) which can be implemented by coaches to consolidate player understanding.

Compared to traditional or skills-based coaching, GBAs have been shown to elicit comparable effects on technical skill execution whilst yielding superior levels of decision-making, tactical understanding and enjoyment/intrinsic motivation. Whilst empirical interest in GBAs has undergone a marked increase in recent years, particularly in sports coaching, the effects of GBAs on components of fitness (e.g aerobic capacity), are largely unknown.

With this in mind, initial aims of the current project are to determine the potential, if any, for GBAs as a means of developing components of fitness that are deemed influential in Gaelic Games among youth Gaelic football players. In addressing this question, further knowledge concerning the complete utility of GBAs as a training philosophy will be attained and will complement the latter stages of the project in which the focus will turn towards establishing coach education pathways to promote the uptake of GBAs among Gaelic Games’ coaches.