The aim of the study was to compare the procedural knowledge of expert and novice volleyball players, considering that the expert cognitive profile can be used as a reference in the tactical training process of players. The participants in this study included 8 experts and 11 novices. McPherson and Thomas` verbal protocol instrument was used to access the players` tactical knowledge. The results showed significant differences, with higher mean values in experts, in the condition and regulatory concepts, and in the hierarchies of goals related to themselves and opponents. Coaches must pay attention on increasing the amount of elements to analyse related to the environment, in order to improve players` tactical training process in the service action. Athletes need to be taught on prioritize the most relevant elements of the environment. When training the serve, the areas of responsibility, strengths and weaknesses of each receiver must be assessed, as well as the influence of the serve on the construction of the opponent`s attack.
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