Influence of Playing Venue on Testosterone and Cortisol Responses in Male Inter-University Volleyball Players

Abstract

The present study aimed to examine the effect of playing venue on testosterone and cortisol responses in male volleyball players. Ninety-six players from eight different public and private universities were monitored during eight competitive matches playing against each other on a home and opponent's home ground. The matches played at home were also won. Testosterone (ng/mL) and cortisol (ug/dL) levels were analyzed before and after each match. A significantly (p 0.0001) pre-match reduction was seen in the testosterone level of players on the opponent's home ground as evidence which indicates that playing venue affects the players' behavior even they did not play the match. Whereas, significantly (p 0.0001) higher pre-match cortisol level of players was observed on an opponent's home ground before the commencement of the match. The present study concluded that playing venue strongly influenced the players' hormonal responses, and they perceive more stress while playing on the opponent's ground.