Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of eight weeks plyometric training on selected technical skill performances of handball players at Fogera woreda. The study employed quantitative research approach and true experimental research design. The target population of this study was 24 (n = 24) male handball trainees in Fogera woreda. Due to little numbers of study population, all players were taken by using comprehensive sampling techniques.24 male handball players were divided in to two equal groups as EG(N = 12) and CG (N =12) by the means of randomization. Experimental group (EG) performed additional handball training for eight week, 3-days per week for a total of 60 minutes. Both groups were participated in selected technical skill performance field tests before and after training. Shooting accuracy was measured by using front shot test, defensive footwork using footwork T-test and passing accuracy using accurate throw test.This data were analyzed by using SPSS version 23 software by paired sample t-test and independent sample t- test of with a significance level of 0.05. The analyzed data showed that plyometric training significantly improved shooting accuracy, defensive footwork and passing accuracy in pre-post test performance of EG (p<0.05).But, no significant improvement were found in all selected technical skill variables pre-post test performance of CG (P>0.05). In addition, as it was assessed by the independent t-test the posttest performance of shooting accuracy , defensive footwork and passing accuracy of EG more significantly improved than posttest CG group tests( p<0.05). Based on this finding, it can be concluded that 8 week plyometric training had a positive effect on shooting accuracy, defensive footwork and passing accuracy of handball players. Therefore, it is recommended that handball players and coaches should include the plyometric training programs in their training sessions for development of technical skills of players.