The Effect of Composite Exercises (Mental-Physical) on Improving the Performance of Football Referees

Abstract

The importance of the research lies in using an international form to evaluate referees' performance during their management of matches, based on scientific observation that monitors phenomena and describes their effects by collecting the greatest possible amount of necessary information that helps us explain and interpret the internal and external (apparent) aspects [of performance]. The research aims to: Prepare combined (mental–physical) exercises to develop the performance level of football referees Identify the effect of combined (mental–physical) exercises on the performance level of football referees Methodology: The researcher used the experimental method with two equivalent groups, as itwas suited to the nature of the study. The research sample consisted of 20 first-class football referees in Wasit Governorate, who are accredited by the [football] federation, actively practice refereeing, and officiate local league matches The pre-test was conducted by the assisting research team on 15/10/2025. The researcher then applied a set of proposed prepared training exercises that included mental training accompanying physical training for the experimental group. The post-test was conducted by the assisting research team on 6/2/2026. Results: In light of the findings, the results of the study clarified the importance of both physical training and mental training for football referees, and showed that mental training accompanying physical training has an effective impact on referees' performance level. Relaxation training contributed to developing the experimental group's capacity for better assimilation of mental training through the application of the components of the mental training program. Recommendations: Based on the findings of this study, the researcher recommends the following: Confirming the use of mental training accompanying physical training, given its clear and effective impact on the performance level of football referees. Adopting mental training methods to help develop referees' performance in football during the regular training units of the Referees Committee If you'd like, I can also format this into a proper English abstract layout (with keywords, etc.) or put it into a Word document.