Objective: This study aims to examine the relationship between intuitive thinking
and motor anticipation among female handball goalkeepers. 

Methods: The descriptive survey method was used to suit the study’s
correlational nature. The research population consisted of 60 female
goalkeepers from 30 middle school teams participating in the Directorate of
Education (Al-Karkh Third District) championship during the 2024-2025 academic
year. A random sample of 50 goalkeepers was selected, with 5 additional participants
used in a pilot study. Data were collected using standardized tools to measure
intuitive thinking and motor anticipation. Statistical analysis was conducted
to determine correlations.

Results: Findings revealed a significant positive correlation between intuitive
thinking and motor anticipation (p < 0.05). Goalkeepers with higher
intuitive thinking scores demonstrated greater accuracy and speed in motor
prediction tasks. This indicates that intuitive abilities may enhance real-time
decision-making in high-stakes performance contexts.

Conclusion: Intuitive thinking appears to be a crucial psychological factor
influencing motor anticipation in handball goalkeepers. Integrating mental
training strategies focused on intuition—such as visualization and cognitive
stimulation—into goalkeeper development programs could improve anticipatory
performance. The study supports the value of combining cognitive, sensory, and
physical training in modern sports science.