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All Journal Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research
Spyridon Plakias
Department of Physical Education and Sports, University of Thessaly
Education

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Mislabeling latent variables in factor analysis applied to football playing style research: A commentary Spyridon Plakias
Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research
Publisher : CV Rezki Media

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56003/pessr.v5i1.693

Abstract

The application of exploratory factor analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) has become increasingly prevalent in football analytics, offering a robust framework for identifying and quantifying playing styles. By condensing a large set of performance indicators into factors, these techniques provide valuable insights into tactical patterns. However, a persistent challenge lies in the subjective labeling of these factors, which can lead to ambiguous or misleading interpretations. This commentary highlights the issue of mislabeling latent variables in football playing style research, drawing on examples from recent studies to illustrate how inaccurate labels can distort both theoretical understanding and practical applications. The implications of poor labeling extend beyond academic discourse, potentially affecting coaches and analysts who rely on data-driven insights for tactical planning. To address these challenges, we propose best practice recommendations emphasizing conceptual clarity, standardized terminology, and expert validation. Accurate and consistent factor labeling is essential to ensure the reliability, comparability, and practical relevance of findings in the evolving field of football performance analysis.
A domain-specific peer-review checklist for sport science journals: Translating a conceptual framework into practice Spyridon Plakias
Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research Vol. 5 No. 2 (2026): Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research
Publisher : CV Rezki Media

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56003/pessr.v5i2.741

Abstract

The peer-review process plays a central role in ensuring the quality and credibility of scientific research; however, it remains characterized by variability, limited standardization, and a lack of domain-specific evaluation criteria. These limitations are particularly evident in sport science, a multidisciplinary field involving complex, context-dependent, and applied performance data. Although several guidelines for peer-review exist, they are often either generic or tailored to specific domains, limiting their applicability to sport science research. The aim of the present study was to develop a comprehensive, domain-specific reviewer checklist for sport science journals. Building on a previously proposed conceptual framework of publishable research, the checklist operationalizes key dimensions of manuscript evaluation into structured criteria, spanning editorial screening, conceptual foundation, methodological and analytical rigor, research transparency, scientific communication, and scientific and practical impact. In addition, the framework integrates both hierarchical and iterative elements of the peer-review process, conceptualizing manuscript evaluation as a cyclical process that begins and concludes with editorial decision-making. The proposed checklist provides a structured and contextually relevant tool to support reviewers in conducting more consistent and transparent evaluations, while assisting editors in decision-making and offering authors clearer expectations. Although not yet empirically validated, the proposed framework represents a step toward improving the quality, consistency, and contextual relevance of peer-review in sport science.
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