The Impact of Tournament Load on Neuromuscular Function, Perceived Wellness and Coach Ratings of Performance During Intensified Youth Netball Competition

Abstract

PurposeThis study examined the effects of tournament load on neuromuscular function, perceived wellness and coach ratings of performance across two 6-day netball tournaments.MethodsThirty-nine female youth netballers (age = 14.6 ± 0.5 years, stature = 165.9 ± 4.7 cm, body mass = 56.5 ± 7.2 kg) were categorised as HIGH (10–11 matches, n = 20) or LOW (6 matches, n = 19) tournament load. Match load, jump height, perceived wellness and coach ratings of performance were monitored daily.ResultsHIGH tournament load resulted in greater reductions in jump height on match-day 4 (–8.3%, ± 5.6%) when compared to LOW. HIGH tournament load resulted in greater reductions in perceived soreness (–0.9, ± 1.1 AU) and overall wellness (–2.6, ± 2.3 AU) on match-day 3, and a greater reduction in perceived sleep (–0.9, ± 1.1 AU) on match-day 4. HIGH tournament load was negatively associated with sleep quality and coach ratings of performance (effect size correlation = -0.34 to -0.47) when compared to LOW.ConclusionOur results indicate that a higher tournament load resulted in greater increases in neuromuscular fatigue, reduced perceived wellness, and lower ratings of performance. Practitioners should consider pre-tournament preparation and monitoring strategies to minimise the physiological disturbances during an intensified tournament.