This thesis investigated the movement sequences of elite and junior-elite female netball
athletes using a local positioning system (LPS). Study one determined the indoor
validity of an LPS, specifically the Wireless ad hoc System for Positioning (WASP), for
measuring distance, velocity and angular velocity whilst sprinting and walking five nonlinear
courses. The criterion measure used to assess WASP validity was Vicon, a
motion analysis system. During all sprinting and walking drills, WASP had an
acceptable accuracy for measuring total distance covered (coefficient of variation, CV;
< 5.2%). Similarly, WASP had an acceptable accuracy across all sprinting and walking
drills for measuring mean velocity (CV; < 6.5%). During all sprinting drills, WASP had
acceptable accuracy for measuring mean and peak angular velocity (CV; < 3%). A
increased bias was observed during all walking drills, compared to sprinting, likely due
to radio-frequency (RF) interference from the metal-clad indoor stadium where
validation trials were conducted. Researchers and practitioners may use WASP to
accurately quantify the non-linear movement of athletes during indoor court-based
sports although should be aware of the increased bias during walking movement.