Competitive Players Research Articles

Stress in Esports: A Qualitative Study on The Interplay of Player Experiences and Organizational Systems

Video games are designed for enjoyment and can benefit players, but in competitive settings such as esports they may lead to stress, a significant concern for players and coaches in competitive play due to potential negative psychological, social, and physical impacts. Since esports players are mostly adolescents and young adults, the vulnerability of their age underscores the need to investigate their stress experience. To this aim, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 16 First-Person Shooter (FPS) players and coaches (mean age 22.2) across A- to C-tiers. We examined players’ subjective stress experiences, team dynamics, and the broader esports organizational context. Findings reveal the players’ ability to recognize their stress signals and to make sense of stressful events, along with a stronger reliance on individual coping strategies over team-based or organizational resources, which remain largely inaccessible. Finally, we propose design strategies to strengthen esports players’ resilience and coping capacity in stressful environments.

Morphological Characteristics of Elite-Level Cadet Female Handball Players in European Competition

Morphological Characteristics of Elite-Level Cadet Female Handball Players in European Competition

Evaluation of Blood Lactate among Different Player Roles: A Pilot Study on Competitive Young Male Soccer Players.

Soccer match requires anaerobic and aerobic energetic metabolism. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the changes in blood lactate concentration in young male soccer players in different playing roles at different time points after the soccer match. Following an initial screening of 134 young soccer athletes, 8 male athletes (average age of 15.5 ± 5 SD) were chosen for their characteristics similar to those of competitive athletes. Players were categorized as goalkeeper, central defender, central midfielder, and forward. Blood lactate concentrations were determined using a portable device at different times (10 min, 5 and 16 h) after the soccer match by a maximum effort test on a treadmill. The data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance ANOVA, followed by Bonferroni's post-hoc test. The following results (mean ± SD) were obtained: VO2max (%) 60.33 ± 3.10; blood lactate (mM) end match (10 min) 2.17 ± 0.78, post-match-early (after 5 h) 2.2 ± 0.42, postmatch-late (16 h) 3.2 ± 0.84. ANOVA analysis indicated that the blood LA concentrations at end-match (10 min) and post-match-early (5 h) were statistically significative lower than those determined at post-match-late (16 h) (p < 0.05). These results suggest that aerobic mechanisms can also use LA as an energy source, contributing to the reduction of its blood concentration. This effect can be due to reduced maximal work during a soccer match and to the LA removal during exercise at reduced intensity. These data can provide indications for planning suitable training strategies for young male soccer players.

Analysis of match performance of elite soccer players across confederations during the Men’s and Women’s World Cup

ABSTRACT This study aimed to benchmark and analyze match performance of elite soccer players from various confederations during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 (Men’s WC) and FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 (Women’s WC). A total of 128 matches were analyzed using an optical tracking system (n = 1,351 player observations). Players from various national teams were categorized into their respective confederations: Europe (UEFA), South America (CONMEBOL), North/Central America and Caribbean (CONCACAF), Africa (CAF) and Asia and Oceania (AFC/OFC). Generalized Linear Mixed Models and Linear Mixed Models were employed to assess performance differences between confederations. Data revealed that CONMEBOL players in the Men’s WC covered less total distance than UEFA players (p = 0.0396; ES = 0.6). However, no differences were found in high-intensity running and sprinting distances across confederations in both tournaments. UEFA players in both competitions typically demonstrated superior technical/tactical performances. In particular, UEFA players in the Women’s World Cup made more passes, had 7–16% higher pass completion rates and achieved 10–15% greater line break completion rates compared to those from CAF, CONCACAF and AFC/OFC (p < 0.0001 to p = 0.0199, ES = 0.5–1.3). These findings suggest that UEFA players may possess a tactical/technical edge in international competitions. However, caution should be exercised when interpreting data due to high variations within confederations. This is the first comprehensive study describing match performance between confederations during the Men’s and Women’s WC, providing valuable insights into the physical and technical/tactical aspects of elite soccer.

The management of a professional footballer recovering from a surgical repair of the proximal adductor longus tendon through a return-to-performance pathway. A case report

ABSTRACT This case report details the management of a 23-year-old professional footballer who sustained a rupture of the proximal adductor longus (AL) tendon. Following surgical reattachment of the tendon, the player completed an eleven-phase return to performance (RTPerf) pathway designed to ensure a rapid and safe return to play (RTPlay). The pathway uses distinct phases that incorporate clinical, performance, and sport-specific criteria to guide decision-making throughout the process. This case report outlines the phases and criteria used in conjunction with shared decision-making by the interdisciplinary team (IDT) to ensure a successful RTPlay. The effectiveness of this pathway was demonstrated by the player’s return to competitive play 12 weeks post-surgery.

Concussions in Soccer.

The identification, management, and prevention of concussion across all competitive sports and athletic populations has been a notable topic of research over the last decade. Soccer is no exception, with over a billion participants worldwide. In soccer, 3 distinct subsets of head injuries are often the contributors to concussion: head-to-equipment, head-to-surface, and head-to-player collisions. Recognition of concussion is crucial, and ideally made on the sideline during competitive play. Recently updated screening tools include the SCAT6 and ChildSCAT6, which are widely utilized at all levels of play. Management of concussion is divided into on-field and in clinic management. Initial management includes removal from the field of play. There is increased emphasis on earlier incorporation of exercise prescription as a means to improve recovery in the concussed athlete. While few objective diagnostic tests exist to identify concussion, many are in development, most notably advanced imaging and biomarker modalities.

Hydration status of esports players in a live competition

Objectives: esports are an increasingly popular activity that involves professional players. Dehydration hinders cognitive performance, on which these competitors rely heavily. This observational study assessed the hydration state of esports players on a competition day and its possible associations with esports and lifestyle-related features.Methods: The hydration status of esports players was assessed on a tournament day through urine-specific gravity and by comparison with the Armstrong urine color chart. Binary logistic regression and univariate analysis of variance were applied to assess the relationships between urine-specific gravity and age, BMI, hours of sleep per day, hours of video game play per day, esports title, physical activity level, and professionalism level.Results: Ninety-eight esports players participated in this study. The average urine-specific gravity, assessed through refractometry, was 1.020 (SD = 0.007) g/cm³. 10.2% were classified as well hydrated, 25.5% with minimal dehydration, 60.2% with significant dehydration, and 4.1% with serious dehydration. Considering the eight-color urine chart method, 16.3% were classified with minimal dehydration, 65.3% with significant dehydration, and 18.4% as serious dehydration. There were no significant associations between hydration status and lifestyle-related variables (p > 0.05). The results of the two methods of assessing hydration status presented a positive, moderate, and statistically significant correlation (r = 0.711, p < 0.001). The agreement between the two classifications was 56.1%, with Cohen’s kappa showing a weak agreement (k = 0.213, p < 0.001) even if with linear (k = 0.330, p < 0.001) or quadratic (k = 0.471, p < 0.001) weighting.

Return to Play at Preinjury Level After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Divisions II and III National Collegiate Athletic Association Student-Athletes.

The rates of return to play (RTP) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction among professional and National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I athletes are well described in the orthopaedic literature. Less is known about these rates and risk factors for failure to RTP in Division II and III collegiate athletes. To determine the RTP rate after ACL reconstruction among Division II and III collegiate athletes and to explore the factors associated with RTP. Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Demographic and RTP data were retrospectively reviewed for collegiate athletes who underwent ACL reconstructions across high-risk sports over 6 years (2015/16 to 2021/22 seasons) at 5 northeastern NCAA Division II and III institutions. Clinical data collected included Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) on the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Sport and Recreation questionnaire, graft type, concomitant reparative surgery, reinjury, need for reoperation, and time to RTP and return to preinjury level. Participants completed the survey using a secure web-based questionnaire sent via email or over the telephone at a minimum 6-month follow-up. Descriptive frequencies were calculated for all documented variables, with chi-square and analysis of variance statistics used to assess for associations and significant differences between variables. A total of 61 eligible student-athletes with primary ACL reconstructions were identified in this study period, and 40 knees were enrolled for analysis with a mean time from surgery to survey completion of 45.0 months. The overall RTP rate was 77.5% (31/40) at a mean of 10.1 months. However, only 50.0% (20/40) returned to their preinjury level of competitive play. There was a graft failure rate of 20% (8/40). Of the 32 athletes who did not reinjure their ACL, 81.25% (26/32) demonstrated a PASS on KOOS Sports and Recreation. Graft rerupture (P < .001) and reoperation (P = .007) had significant effects on rates of RTP. Concomitant procedures (P = .010) influenced return to preinjury level of sports. Injury during the active season versus the off-season significantly influenced KOOS PASS status (P = .038). This study demonstrated that the rate of RTP after ACL reconstruction in this patient population of Division II and III collegiate athletes was 77.5%, with only 50% returning to their preinjury level of competitive play. The graft failure rate in this population was 20%. Surgical factors, such as concomitant surgeries and reinjury of ACL graft, as well as athlete-specific data, such as injury in the off-season, were statistically significant negative influences on patient outcomes. Further research is needed to evaluate other potential factors that may play a role in RTP after ACL reconstruction.

Prevalence and Characteristics of Female and Male Esports Players among Norwegian Youth: A General Population Study.

Electronic sports (esports) have evolved into a major cultural phenomenon in the 21st century, mirroring traditional sports with organized, competitive play. This study investigates the prevalence of esports participation and characteristics of esports players among Norwegian adolescents. Using data from the Ungdata survey, a comprehensive web-based survey of Norwegian adolescents that includes questions on demographics, health, physical activity, social relations, and leisure activities such as gaming and esports, we analyzed responses from 70,695 students aged 16-18 years collected during 2021-2023. We conclude that about one out of twenty in the age group of 16-18 years actively engage in esports. The figure conceals significant gender differences: only 0.7% of girls, compared to 8.8% of boys, actively participate in esports. While female esports players differ noticeably from non-players on almost all indicators included in our analyses, the picture among boys reflects more similarities between esports players and other boys, than differences. Among the esports players, females almost consistently reported more negative experiences than males, including less physical socialization, lower self-rated health, higher rates of loneliness and sleeping problems, and a greater difficulty fitting in at school. Despite these negative aspects, esports players maintain close friendships similar to their non-playing peers.

Greater hip internal rotation range of motion is associated with increased dynamic knee valgus during jump landing, both before and after fatigue.

The aim of this study was to analyse sex-specific differences contributing to dynamic valgus in competitive soccer players before and after a standardised fatiguing protocol. Thirty-nine healthy female and male competitive soccer players (19 females and 20 males) were recruited for the purpose of this study. Bilateral medial knee displacement (MKD) was assessed during drop jump landings using a three-dimensional motion capture system before and after a standardised fatiguing protocol. In addition, all soccer players underwent clinical examinations, including rotational hip range of motion (ROM), isokinetic strength testing and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the hip and knee. Sex-specific and fatigue-dependent differences were reported, and the influence of demographic, clinical and radiographic factors on MKD was analysed via multiple linear regression models. Compared with male soccer players, female soccer players demonstrated a tendency towards increased MKD during drop jump landings before (p = 0.09) and after the fatiguing protocol (p = 0.04). Sex-specific differences included increased hip internal rotation (IR) ROM, decreased hip external rotation (ER) strength and increased femoral torsion in females (all p < 0.002). According to the multiple linear regression models (stepwise method), increased hip IR ROM (90° of flexion) and the non-dominant leg remained the sole independent predictors of increased MKD during drop jump landings before (p < 0.01 and p = 0.02, respectively) and after fatigue (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively). An increase in hip IR ROM in females was linearly related to MKD after fatigue (R2 = 0.25; p < 0.01). Female soccer players exhibited increased dynamic valgus before and after fatigue, which is likely attributed to joint mobility, as well as muscular and anatomical differences, such as increased hip IR ROM, reduced hip ER strength and increased femoral torsion. In particular, females with increased hip IR ROM were more susceptible to effects of fatigue on MKD, which may increase their risk for anterior cruciate ligament injury. Level III.

Bridging the Gap Between Training and Competition in Elite Rink Hockey: A Pilot Study.

Monitoring training load and competition load is crucial for evaluating and improving athlete performance. This study proposes an applied approach to characterize and classify the training task specificity in relation to competition in a top-level rink hockey team, considering external and internal load from training tasks and competition. Training tasks and game demands have significant dose-response differences, and exercises can be classified successfully based on their physiological and biomechanical demands. Cross-sectional study. Level 5. Ten elite-level male rink hockey players participated in this study. Players were monitored on 6 different task categories during 8 training sessions and 2 official games. A linear mixed model with random intercepts was used to compare training tasks and competition load, accounting for individual repeated measures. A 2-step cluster analysis was performed to classify the training tasks and games based on physiological and biomechanical load, employing log-likelihood as the distance measure and Schwartz's Bayesian criterion. Average heartrate , maximum heartrate, and high-speed skating (18.1-30 km/h) were the best physiological load predictors, while the most effective biomechanical load predictors were impacts [8-10] g(n), decelerations [-10 to -3]m/s²(n), and accelerations [3-10]m/s²(n). Different physiological and biomechanical responses were verified between training tasks and match demands. A 4-quadrant efforts assessment for each task category revealed that training tasks used by the team in the analysis presented lower biomechanical and physiological load demands than competition. Training tasks failed to adequately replicate the specific demands of competition, especially regarding high mechanical stress, such as the absence of high-intensity impacts and decelerations. This method of classification of training tasks may allow coaches to understand further the specificity and contribution of each task to competition demands, consequently improving the capacity of load management and the preparedness and readiness of players for competition.

Misconduct among Spanish grassroots soccer players: evidence for their management

ABSTRACT Purpose Identifying antisocial behaviour among child and youth players is crucial for managing and fostering a safe, supportive, and enjoyable sport. This study aimed to describe and analyse the disciplinary sanctions received by players in Spanish grassroots soccer competitions (6-18 years old). Methodology Referee records from 275,844 games across 1,401 league competitions during five subsequent seasons were examined using ANOVA and Tukey's HSD post hoc test. Findings A total of 53,031 sanctions were documented, primarily mild (93.33%). The most common mild sanctions resulted from card accumulation (41.8%), double warning (24.5%), violent or dangerous play (6.5%), and contemptuous and inconsiderate attitudes towards referees (5.5%). Assaults (3.3%) and insults and serious offences (2.7%) received serious sanctions from referees. Severe sanctions (0.004%) were anecdotal. Furthermore, we found significantly (p < .05) more sanctions in 11-a-side soccer than in 8-a-side, in boys versus girls’ categories, and U18 and U15 boys’ groups compared to younger age categories. Practical implications The strategies adopted for improving sportsmanship should especially target players in the U18 and U15 male categories and those who are repeat offenders. Our findings can be used to guide the prevention and intervention efforts of all institutions and agents with responsibilities in children’s sports education.

The medicolegal challenges in spine care of professional athletes

Professional athletes are prone to spinal injuries, and the treatment of this distinct patient population involves additional medicolegal challenges that must be considered. Catastrophic complications and delay in treatment of complications are linked with plaintiff verdicts in legal claims. Clear communication, thorough informed consent, and prompt disclosure of errors or complications can mitigate litigation risks. Effective collaboration with the athletic team is important in optimizing a safe return to competitive play.

A Study on Predicting Tennis Player's Competition Direction Based on Logistic Regression and LSTM Model

A Study on Predicting Tennis Player's Competition Direction Based on Logistic Regression and LSTM Model

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Ruptures in Russian Premier League Soccer Players During the 2010 to 2021/2022 Competitive Seasons: The Epidemiology and Details of Return to Sports.

There are limited data on the epidemiology of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures in elite adult soccer players, especially in the Russian Premier League (RPL). There is an increased risk of injury due to a combination of additional risk factors such as playing in extremely high and low temperatures, frequent long flights, and regular play on natural and artificial surfaces. To study the epidemiology of ACL ruptures and determine the patterns associated with their occurrence in RPL soccer players. Descriptive epidemiology study. All ACL ruptures requiring surgery sustained by players competing in the RPL across 12 competitive seasons between 2010 and 2022 were analyzed. All required data were collected from media analysis and confirmed by club doctors. A total of 85 players sustained 100 injuries during 12 competitive seasons. A total of 96.5% of players returned to competitive play. The injury incidence in RPL and during participation of RPL teams in European Cups were 0.4760 and 0.5622 per 1000 playing hours, respectively. When analyzing the outcomes of the primary ACL surgery (a total of 76 operations), the following data were obtained: in 11 cases (14.5%), there was a reinjury on the ipsilateral knee joint and in 4 cases (5.3%) on the contralateral knee joint. The mean return-to-play time after all operations was 284 ± 116 days. The time of return to play after primary reconstruction was 289 ± 136 days, 278 ± 91 days after reconstruction on the contralateral knee and 271 ± 51.5 days after the first ACL revision reconstruction on the ipsilateral knee joints. RPL ACL injury epidemiology is similar to that in the other leagues from around the world, although there are factors that can potentially influence the number of these injuries.

Reliability and Relationship between Hip Muscle Strength and Change of Direction Performance among Basketball Players

Background: Basketball change of direction (COD) tests are not specific to the defensive lateral shuffling movement, and no COD tests assesses the relationship between hip muscle strength and basketball specific lateral movements. Objective: We assessed the reliability of a COD test (2-2 shuffle test) performance and investigated its relationship to hip muscle strength. Methods: Using a prospective observational cohort design, data were collected from competitive male basketball players (n = 21; age 20.0 ± 3.5 years; height 194.7 ± 7.0 cm; weight 93.9 ± 14.7 kg). Participants performed two trials of the hip abductors/adductors isometric muscle strength assessment and the 2-2 shuffle test. Intraday reliability of the 2-2 shuffle test was computed using Bland-Altman plots, intraclass correlations (ICCs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), and coefficient of variations (CVs). Pearson correlations with 95% CIs determined the relationship between shuffle test time and hip muscle’s isometric strength. Results: The 2-2 shuffle test time for left (ICC = 0.91, CV = 7.7%) and right (ICC = 0.86, CV = 8.4%) directions met acceptable reliability thresholds (ICC 0.8, CV 10%). The relationships observed between 2-2 shuffle test time and hip abductors/adductors were non-significant and unclear across parameters (p = 0.05, r = ≤ -0.26). Conclusion: Physical performance coaches may use the 2-2 shuffle test as the test time is a reliable metric. The hip abductors/adductors maximal isometric strength accounts for a trivial proportion of explained variance in the 2-2 shuffle test, suggesting other technical and physical abilities account for test performance.

Relation of general-perceptual cognitive abilities and sport-specific performance of young competitive soccer players.

In soccer, skill is significantly influenced by motor skills and physical constitution. In addition, perceptual-cognitive abilities are thought to affect sport-specific performance. Nevertheless, there are hardly any studies investigating the relationship of general cognitive abilities with sport-specific performance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze relationships between general perceptual-cognitive abilities and soccer-specific performance in competitive youth sports. Thirty highly talented male youth soccer players aged 12-14years completed various perceptual-cognitive (selective attention, cognitive flexibility, inhibition, working memory, peripheral perception, and choice response) and sport-specific on-field tests. Cognitive abilities were assessed using a computer-based test system. Soccer-specific performance skills were evaluated by two sport-specific on-field tests. The relation between perceptual-cognitive abilities and soccer-specific performance was examined using a correlation analysis as well as a four-stage regression analysis. Overall, the expression of general perceptual-cognitive abilities was found to have an impact on performance in soccer-specific test situations, particularly cognitive flexibility and selective attention. Our results suggest that general cognitive tests could be an important tool for the evaluation of cognitive abilities in soccer. This study brings together key approaches in expertise research and makes a significant contribution to a better understanding of expertise in soccer.

Exploring Sustainable Leisure Farm with Intelligent of Things (IoT) Technology Solution for Aging

Amid the increasingly severe challenges faced by traditional agricultural development, it has become necessary for farms to undergo operational transformations. In considering the direction of this transformation, the growing proportion of older adults in the population and the maturation of modern smart technologies applied to industries must be taken into account. By integrating intelligent Internet of Things (IoT) solutions to aid business operations, leisure farms are expected to provide significant benefits to both operators and visitors. Taiwan, which has long been a leader in precision agriculture, serves as a benchmark in Asia for the successful transformation of traditional farms into leisure farms, becoming a model for neighboring countries. This study investigates the transformative potential of intelligent IoT technology solutions on leisure farms, highlighting their capacity to attract senior citizens and create sustainable business models in competitive, homogeneous markets. The primary objective of this research is to uncover the advantageous factors associated with the adoption of intelligent IoT technology solutions in leisure farms. Employing a grounded theory approach, this research conducted face-to-face semi-structured interviews with 40 leisure farm operators to gain insights into the innovative and sustainable value propositions of leisure farms. This study identifies six key advantageous factors and six constraint factors. This research provides forward-looking insights into the application of intelligent IoT technology solutions in leisure farms, emphasizing strategic directions for operators. The integration of these solutions presents a unique opportunity for leisure farms to meet the demands of elderly individuals seeking safe, natural environments without compromising their interests. By offering tailored leisure activities and entertainment, these solutions enhance the quality of life of seniors and promote rural lifestyles, positioning leisure farms as innovative and competitive players in the market. The insights provided in this study can also inform government policymakers and serve as a foundation for future researchers to extend related studies from a customer perspective.

Association between aerobic performance and physiological responses in Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 2, and the futsal-specific intermittent endurance test in trained futsal players.

This prospective cross-sectional study aimed to delineate associations between the performance and physiological responses to the Bruce test with two field tests, the futsal intermittent endurance test (FIET) and the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level-2 (YYIR2) in elite male futsal players, in order to endorse one of field test to futsal coaches. Fifteen elite futsal players (age 20 ± 3 years) have been participated in this study. Main outcome measurements included aerobic power, heart rate, blood lactate, ventilation, VO2, VCO2, VE-VO2, and VE-VCO2 indicators during FIET, YYIR2, and the Bruce test with carrying out a portable gas analyzer. The Bruce test is significantly correlated with FIET and YYIR2 with respect to key outcome measures, including performance (r>0.59), aerobic power (r>0.69), heart rate (r>0.80), and blood lactate levels (r>0.60). The two field tests, FIET and YYIR2, were found to exhibit strong to perfect interrelationships. When examining the indicators such as VE, VO2, VCO2, VE-VO2, and VE-VCO2, moderate to strong correlations were identified across all three testing methods. However, the relationship between the Bruce test and YYIR2 was particularly noteworthy in terms of respiratory exchange ratio (RER) and metabolic equivalent of task (METS), showing a significant correlation. The YYIR2 and FIET appear to be valid practical field tests for measuring aerobic fitness and performance in competitive male futsal players.

Sympathy for the Devil: Serial Mediation Models for Toxicity, Community, and Retention

Disruptive behaviors in online gaming communities are a growing concern, affecting player experience, retention, and well-being. While previous research has primarily focused on the victims’ experiences, this study examines the psychological mechanisms underlying the attitudinal and behavioral responses to both encountering disruptive behaviors and being flagged for such behaviors, as well as the effects on retention. The study retrieved longitudinal telemetry records of player reporting and gameplay data from the North American server of a popular competitive player vs. player multiplayer online game, coupled with a psychometric survey of a randomly selected sample of 1,217 players. Based on the rejection-disidentification model, this research identifies a shared pathway for both reporting and being reported for disruptive behavior. Our findings support a serial mediation model where both experiences are linked to decreased player engagement. This reduced engagement, reflected in diminished participation in game battles over time, is mediated by perceived discrimination and a reduced sense of community. Moreover, drawing on the concept of procedural justice from the group engagement model, the study delineates unique pathways for the disengagement process for reporters and those reported. Being flagged for disruptive behavior leads to a significant drop in sustained engagement through a decreased sense of community, which is not the case for reporting disruptive behavior. The article concludes with a discussion of the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.