A Comparative Study on the Effectiveness of Volleyball Training Programs For Male And Female Red Spartan Athletes of Batangas State University

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of the organized volleyball training program among male and female Red Spartan athletes of Batangas State University during Academic Year 2025–2026. Specifically, it assessed the reported influence of the training program on physical performance in terms of vertical jump, agility, and strength and on tactical skill development in terms of game awareness and decision-making. The study employed a comparative research design and used total enumeration to include 54 volleyball athletes, consisting of 28 males and 26 females. Data were gathered through a researcher-developed, self-administered four-point Likert-scale questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, physical performance outcomes, tactical development, and game awareness. Weighted mean and standard deviation were used for descriptive analysis, while Kruskal–Wallis H, Mann–Whitney U, and Spearman rank-order correlation were used for inferential analysis.

The findings showed that the respondents were predominantly 19–21 years old (66.67%), with males comprising 51.85% and females 48.15% of the sample. The training program was perceived to contribute positively to vertical-jump performance, movement efficiency, volleyball-specific strength, game awareness, and decision-making. Nevertheless, lower ratings were observed for hang time, standardized agility performance, and one-minute push-up performance. Significant differences were found across age groups in strength (H = 23.74, p < .001), agility (H = 22.98, p < .001), and vertical jump (H = 27.73, p < .001). Significant male–female differences were likewise found in strength (U = 24.00, p < .001), agility (U = 0.00, p < .001), and vertical jump (U = 33.00, p < .001), with female athletes obtaining higher mean ranks in the reported comparisons. Game awareness and decision-making also differed significantly by age and sex. Strong positive relationships were reported between physical and tactical indicators.

The study concludes that the organized volleyball training program was generally effective in supporting physical and tactical development, although its outcomes varied according to athlete profile. The findings support an integrated, progressive, athlete-centered, and gender-responsive approach that combines physical conditioning with game-based tactical and decision-making activities. A Holistic Development Program for Red Spartan Volleyball Excellence is proposed as a basis for strengthening the existing training program.