Male Football Players Research Articles

Evaluation of Sleep Behaviors in Male Football Players Participating in Youth Football Leagues

This article addresses a research study aimed at evaluating the sleep behaviors of young football players in Turkey. The research was conducted using a correlational survey design. The population consisted of male football players participating in the Turkey Football U 19 Elite A, U 17 Elite A, U 17 Elite B, U 19 Regional Development, U 17 Regional Development, and U 16 Development leagues, with a sample size of 203 players. Statistical methods such as normality analysis, Mann-Whitney U test, and Kruskal-Wallis H test were used for analysis. The study found no statistically significant differences in the variables of football year, position status, training day, regular medication use status, education level, and sleep duration among young football players. The data revealed that young players who stayed with friends at home or alone had higher sleep quality compared to those staying with their families at home. When analyzed according to the computer and phone usage variable, except for the sleep disorder factor, all sub-dimensions favored those using computers and phones. Regarding the playing status in development leagues, significant results were found in the sports factor sub-dimension for U 19 Elite A and U 19 Regional Development league players in relation to sleep quality factors. According to ASBQ Total Score averages, the values of U 19 Elite A league players were more significant compared to U 17 Elite A league players and U 16 Development league players. Regarding the sleep problem status variable, players indicating sleep problems had statistically higher values in sleep quality factors, Habitual sleep efficiency factors, and ASBQ Total Scores. In conclusion, it can be stated that there is a direct relationship between sleep and performance among U 19 Elite A young football players, and they act with this awareness.

Comparative study of Health Related physical fitness components of Male Football players of Bankura and Howrah District of West Bengal

Comparative study of Health Related physical fitness components of Male Football players of Bankura and Howrah District of West Bengal

Suicide and suicidality among collegiate student-athletes: A scoping review

Objective: Participation in college athletics has traditionally been presumed to counter poor mental health outcomes including death by suicide. While previously reported incidents generally involve male football players, recent incidents suggest changing trends in frequency, sport, and sex. This research aims to summarize the breadth and limitations of existing research on death by suicide among U.S. collegiate student-athletes. Participants and Methods: This scoping review followed Joanna Briggs Institute guidance. A final sample of 19 research studies were identified through a comprehensive search including APA PsychINFO, PubMed, MEDLINE Complete, SPORTDiscus, and CINAHL databases and Gray Literature sources. Results: Most studied outcomes were suicidal ideation and attempt. Research on assessment of suicide prevention interventions for student-athletes is lacking. Conclusions: The paucity of research found on suicidal behaviors among collegiate student-athletes, including a lack of intervention research, in conjunction with recent trends suggest the need for a renewed focus on this topic.

Assessing Variations in Positional Performance across Age Groups and during Matches in Youth Association Football Competitions.

This study aimed to explore how positional performance varies across different youth age groups and during matches in football competitions. The study encompassed 160 male outfield youth football players (n = 80, under-13, U13; n = 80, under-15, U15) who belonged to the starting line-up and played the entire first half of each match. The players' positional data were gathered through the global positional system for each of the eight matches performed by each age group. The frequency of near-in-phase synchronization based on speed displacements, spatial exploration index, and the distance to the nearest teammate and opponent were used as variables. Additionally, each match half was segmented into three equal parts to assess changes over time and used as a period factor along with age group. The results indicated that U13 players showed a significant decrease (from small to large ES) in synchronization speed and spatial exploration index throughout the first half of the match, along with a decrease in the distance to the nearest opponent. In contrast, U15 players exhibited most changes during the third segment of the half, with a decrease in speed synchronization and spatial exploration, but an increase in the distance and regularity to the nearest opponent. Comparing both age groups revealed significant differences in speed synchronization across the entire half of the match and within each segmented period (from small to large ES), with U13 consistently showing higher values. The study highlights that long durations in 11 vs. 11 matches might not provide an appropriate learning environment in the U13 age group. Conversely, the U15 group displayed better capacity for tactical adjustments over time, suggesting a higher level of tactical maturity. Overall, these findings emphasize the importance of adapting youth football training and competition structures to the developmental needs and capabilities of different age groups to optimize learning and performance outcomes.

The impact of decreased tibial torsion angle on ankle sprain in football

Objective: Ankle sprains are one of the most common sports-related injuries. Among them, lateral ankle sprains (LAS) predominantly occur as inversion-type injuries. As a result of LAS, athletes are required to stay away from training/competitions for a certain period, which leads to a decline in their athletic performance. While the injury mechanisms for inversion-type injuries have been elucidated, it is imperative to investigate anatomical risk factors associated with these injuries. Material and Methods: This study aimed to examine the influence of tibial torsion angle (TTA) in lateral ankle sprains. In the study, the TTA of 67 male football players was recorded during pre-season evaluations. Among these players, 23 experienced LAS, while 44 did not. Results: A statistically significant difference in TTA was observed between players who suffered LAS during the season and those who did not (p<0.05). The findings indicate that individuals with lower TTA are more likely to experience LAS. In addition, a cutoff value analysis revealed that football players with right TTA<11° and left TTA<10° are at an increased risk of injury. Conclusion: In conclusion, the tibial torsion angle should be included as a risk factor in pre-season assessments for lateral ankle sprains, and athletes with low TTA should be integrated into injury prevention programs targeting LAS.

Match-to-Match Variation on High-Intensity Demands in a Portuguese Professional Football Team.

The aim of this study was to analyze the match-to-match variation in high-intensity demands from one Portuguese professional football team according to playing positions. Twenty-three male outfield professional football players were observed during eighteen matches of the Portuguese Second League. Time-motion data were collected using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. Match running performance was analyzed based on the following three playing positions: defenders (DF), midfielders (MF), and forwards (FW). Repeated measures ANOVA was utilized to compare match running performance within each position role, and seasonal running variation. Practical differences were assessed using the smallest worthwhile change (SWC), coefficient of variation (CV), and twice the coefficient of variation (2CV). Significant differences were found among playing positions in total distance covered (F = 15.45, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.33), average speed (F = 12.79, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.29), high-speed running (F = 16.93, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.36), sprinting (F = 13.49, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.31), accelerations (F = 4.69, p = 0.001, η2 = 0.132), and decelerations (F = 12.21, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.284). The match-to-match running performance encompassed TD (6.59%), AvS (8.67%), HSRr (37.83%), SPR (34.82%), ACC (26.92%), and DEC (27.85%). CV values for total distance covered ranged from 4.87-6.82%, with forwards and midfielders exhibiting the greatest and smallest variation, respectively. Midfielders demonstrated the highest match-to-match variation for all other analyzed variables (8.12-69.17%). All playing positions showed significant variation in high-demanding variables (26.94-37.83%). This study presents the initial analysis of match-to-match variation in high-intensity demands within a Portuguese professional football team. Thus, the position's specificity and context can provide a helpful strategy for evaluating match-to-match running performance, and for recommending individualized training exercises based on the peak and high-intensity demands for each player's role within the game.

Return to Play Assessment After Lateral Ankle Sprains - German Male Elite Youth Football (Soccer) Academy Baseline Data.

Lateral ankle sprain (LAS) is one of the most common types of injury in football (soccer). Normative baseline data of performance tests for Return to Play (RTP) decision are still lacking. The primary aim of this study was to generate baseline values for uninjured elite youth football players for a multifactorial RTP assessment and compare with previously published data. A secondary aim was to investigate the use of the Limb Symmetry Index (LSI) as a method to determine whether an athlete passes a performance test or not. Observational Cohort study. Baseline data of performance tests (Y-Balance [YBT-LQ], Heel Rise [HRT]; Singe Leg Squat [SLST]; Single Leg Drop Jump [SLDJ]; Side Hop [SHT]; Figure of 8 Hop [F-8]; Modified Agility T-Test [MAT]) were assessed in 20 elite youth football players, aged 16-21 years. Additionally, the traditional LSI (dividing the result of the non-dominant leg by the result of the dominant leg and multiplying by 100) and directionally corrected LSI (the worst value is divided by the better value and multiplied by 100) were calculated. The test values were compared to previously reported study results. LSI and side-to-side comparisons between dominant and non-dominant leg sides were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test. Male elite youth football players achieved better results in the dynamic performance tests (SHT, F-8, and MAT) compared to reference values of the cohorts previously described in the literature: YBT-LQ total score (cm) dominant (dom) 99.3±8.3, non-dominant (ND) 99.5±10.4; HRT (average number) dom. 27.1±5.4, ND 25.2±5.1); SLDJ height (cm) dom 15±5, ND 15±5 and contact time (sec) dom 0.29±0.08, ND 0.29±0.07, Reactive Strength Index (RSI) dom 0.52±0.12, ND 0.50±0.13); SHT (sec) dom 7.12±0.73, ND 7.39±0.93; F-8 (sec) dom 10.52±1.02, ND 10.37±1.04; and MAT (sec) 5.82±0.22. Directionally corrected LSI differed significantly from the traditional calculated LSI (p<0.05). The findings of this study highlight the need to determine specific baseline data for RTP testing in male elite youth football players after LAS. The traditional LSI should not be used as a "stand alone method" for determining RTP. LSI calculations should consider the direction of asymmetry to determine passing a performance test or not. 3b.

Match-related activity profiles of youth female and male football players during World Cup classification tournaments and their relationship to body composition.

The activity profiles of football players during competition can be affected by the athletes' competitive level and sex. However, evidence of this in youth South American athletes is scarce as is the effects of body composition on match activity profiles. Therefore, the present study compared the activity profiles of Chilean under-20 (U20) and under-17 (U17) male and female teams during the World Cup qualification tournaments (WC) using a multicomponent athlete monitoring system and explored the relationships between these profiles and the players' body composition. Athlete's body composition was measured as there were total distance, distance covered at different velocities, explosive efforts, sprints, and estimated player load (PL) during the 2018-2019 World Cup Qualifiers. Males had greater muscle and lower fat mass than females and covered 10.8% more total distance with maximal speed being 15.3% faster in match play (P<0.05). However, females covered more distance at higher running speeds and had a greater number of sprints (P<0.05). For males, the U20 club was 3.7% faster and performed 26.3% more explosive efforts than the U17 club (P<0.05). Contrastingly, the female U17 club covered more total distance, more distance at different speeds had more total sprints, greater PL, and muscle mass than the U20 club (P<0.05). Across all athletes, fat mass correlated negatively to total distance (R=-0.39; P=0.001), while muscle mass correlated positively with maximal speed (R=0.72; P=0.001). Gender, competitive level, and body composition seem to affect match-activity profiles in football players during WC qualifiers.

Longitudinal analysis of physical abilities and fundamental skills among the Real Madrid Foundation UNY football players

Background and Study Aim. Physical abilities and fundamental skills are essential characteristics of football players requiring in-depth analysis, but the results of previous short-term investigations lack a comprehensive overview. Therefore, this study aimed to conduct a longitudinal analysis of physical abilities and fundamental skills development, as well as the simultaneous development of both among young football players. Material and Method. This quantitative longitudinal descriptive study recruited 31 male football players aged 13-15 as participants with weights of approximately 47-60 kg and heights ranging from 146-164 cm. In addition, the instruments used to assess physical abilities included sit and reach, 30-meter sprint, vertical jump, MFT, arrowhead, as well as ball catching and throwing, while dribbling, passing, and receiving were applied for fundamental skills. Collected data were subjected to the Wilcoxon test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Post Hoc analysis performed using SPSS 23. Result. Wilcoxon test results showed that significance levels of 0.000-0.024 &lt; 0.05 were obtained for physical abilities including flexibility, coordination, speed, power, agility, and endurance, while 0.000 &lt; 0.05 was obtained for fundamental skills comprising shooting, dribbling, receiving, and passing. Kruskal-Wallis test results showed a significance level of 0.000 &lt; 0.05 for both characteristics. Conclusion. The first and second-semester tests conducted for physical abilities and fundamental skills yielded significantly different results. Additionally, a simultaneous difference was observed between the physical abilities and fundamental skills explored. The second-semester tests particularly showed better results for both sets of characteristics examined among the Real Madrid Foundation UNY football players.

Epidemiology of football-related injuries in young male football players. An additional analysis of data from a cluster-randomised controlled trial

ABSTRACT Football carries a high risk of injury for youth players. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology of football-related injuries in young male players. The data stems from a previously conducted cluster-randomised controlled trial that investigated the efficacy of ‘FUNBALL’, a new injury prevention programme. This study contains the data of the 503 players of the control arm. The players belonged to 22 football teams of the Under-(U)15, U17 and U19 age groups. The time-loss injuries were recorded during the season 2021–2022 according to the Football Consensus Statement. An analysis on the injury incidence (IR, calculated per 1000 hours of exposure), location, severity, category, and type was performed. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were used to compare the variables between the specific age groups. 187 injuries (96 in training and 91 in matches) occurred during 52 938 hours of exposure. The overall IR was 3.53 injuries/1000 h (95% confidence intervals (CI) 3.06 to 4.07). The training IR was 2.16 injuries/1000 h (95% CI 1.17 to 2.64). The match IR was 10.50 injuries/1000 h (95% CI 8.55 to 12.89). In the U19s, the overall IRR was higher compared to the U17s (IRR 1.57, CI 1.12 to 2.19; p = 0.008) and compared to the U15s (IRR 1.82, 95% CI 1.25 to 2.62; p = 0.001). The thigh was the most commonly affected body region (IR 0.92/1000 h, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.22). Muscle injuries were the most common injury type (IR 1.05/1000 h, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.37). Injury burden was 74 lost days/1000 h. The findings of this study indicate a lower injury incidence in youth players than in adult ones. We observed a higher injury incidence towards the older age groups.

A Comparison of Glutathione and Malondialdehyde Concentrations in Athletes Engaged in Certain Sports

Sports stimulate the body to adapt to physical activity, causing biochemical and functional metabolic changes in various systems and organs of the body due to exercise. Antioxidants and free radicals affect the biological activity of living organisms, leading to physiological changes in all body systems due to exercise. This study, conducted from December 2023 to February 2024, included 120 blood samples from male basketball (40), football (40), and volleyball (40) players ages 18-27 years, from the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at Tikrit University. Blood samples were collected ten minutes before and ten minutes after 70 minutes of exercise on the same day. The study found no significant differences in glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations before and after exercise among the groups. The findings suggest that the type of sport (football, basketball, or volleyball) with an anaerobic system does not significantly affect antioxidant and fat peroxidation levels, though slight variations due to increased lactic acid in muscles were noted, leading to muscle fatigue and minor changes in GSH and MDA concentrations.

Exploring the Potential Impacts of Mobile Sports Gambling on Economic Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Case Study of Kenya

Kenya’s vibrant mobile sports gambling scene pulsates with the promise of economic prosperity and sporting excellence. Yet, beneath the gleaming facade, whispers of potential pitfalls like addiction, financial strain, and match-fixing cast a long shadow. This study embarks on a multifaceted exploration, wielding both quantitative and qualitative data to reveal the complex realities behind the hype that is all too familiar with the target group. The findings paint a nuanced picture. Young adults and those with higher incomes gamble more frequently, raising concerns about responsible gaming practices. While the industry sparks job creation in sectors such as customer service, marketing, advertisement/brand influencing, and programming, negative consequences like match-fixing and addiction cannot be ignored. For example, in 2023, Kenya’s football federation suspended 14 male football players and 2 coaches over match-fixing allegations, and in February 2020, FIFA banned 4 Kenyan players over an international conspiracy to fix league matches, showing that such iniquitous traits have already permeated the Kenyan sporting arena. Increased sponsorship deals are perceived to propel sports quality; for example, boxing in Kenya was considered a forgotten sport, but various pugilists have gotten lifelines from sponsorship deals with sports betting companies despite these ethical questions still remaining unanswered. Public awareness of government initiatives funded by gambling taxes remains surprisingly low, highlighting a need for greater transparency. Based on these insights, I propose a roadmap for navigating this dynamic landscape. Public awareness campaigns coupled with financial literacy education can empower Kenyans to gamble responsibly. Strengthening regulations and refining taxation systems will ensure fairness and optimize revenue generation. Expanding support services for problem gamblers and fostering workplace awareness are crucial steps towards mitigating negative impacts. Finally, in-depth research is needed to understand the long-term economic and social implications, paving the way for evidence-based interventions. This study transcends mere analysis, offering a crucial compass for policymakers and stakeholders. By acknowledging the double-edged nature of mobile sports gambling, we can chart a course towards a sustainable and responsible future for this transformative industry, ensuring that Kenya truly leverages its potential for growth and prosperity while safeguarding its social well-being.

Correlation of muscular strength and balance in relation to single leg squat analysis in male football players – an observational study

Correlation of muscular strength and balance in relation to single leg squat analysis in male football players – an observational study

A comparative video analysis of hamstring injuries mechanism and situational pattern in men's and women's football (soccer).

To describe the injury mechanism and situational patterns of severe (absence >28 days) hamstring muscle injuries in professional male and female football (soccer) players. The data for males were sourced from Serie A clubs participating in both national and international competitions from 2018 to 2021. For the female cohort, hamstring injuries were identified during matches of the top national/international competitions from 2017 to 2023. Video footage was obtained, and three raters categorised injury mechanisms and situational patterns. Injuries were also examined according to the month, minuteand location. A total of 129 severe hamstring injuries were identified, with 64 occurring in females and 65 in males. Video analysis was possible for 29 (45%) female cases and 61 (94%) male cases. Female injuries had longer lay-off times (97.8 ± 77.1 days) than males (39.6 ± 20.9 days). Females had a higher proportion of indirect contact injuries (34%) than males (13%) and a lower proportion of non-contact injuries (66% vs. 87%). Four situational patterns were identified: running was the most common for both sexes, representing 59% of female injuries and 41% of male injuries. Over-stretching injuries were split across open and CKC scenarios but collectively explained nearly half (48%) of male injuries but only one in five (21%) female injuries. Kicking injuries had a higher proportion in females (17%) than males (10%). Injuries were more common in the second half for females and the first half for males. Females had a higher proportion of indirect contact, runningand kicking injuries and a lower proportion of non-contact and stretch-type injuries than males. Understanding injury patterns can inform tailored prevention programs, considering sex-specific differences. Level IV.

Effectiveness of EMMETT technique on Iliotibial band tightness in football players

The EMMETT technique, developed in Australia, is a manual therapy method gaining recognition for its non-invasive approach and reported effectiveness. This study aims to determine the impact of the EMMETT technique on iliotibial band (ITB) flexibility in young male football athletes. A total of 43 athletes (age 17.21 ± 1.99 years) were randomly assigned to either a control group (n=22) or an experimental group (n=21). The experimental group received the EMMETT technique, while the control group remained in a side-lying position for one minute. ITB flexibility was measured using the EasyAngle® goniometer through the Ober test before and after the intervention. The results showed a significant increase in ITB flexibility in the experimental group compared to the control group. Despite the positive findings, the study has limitations, including a small sample size, focus on a specific demographic (young male football players), and short-term assessment. Future research should include larger, more diverse populations and long-term follow-up to validate these results and explore the broader applications of the EMMETT technique. This study supports the potential of the EMMETT technique as an effective manual therapy for improving ITB flexibility.

A SPORTS CONCUSSION BASELINE IMPLEMENTED AT THE CONCLUSION OF A COLLEGIATE ATHLETE'S CAREER

As concussion diagnosis persists as a major clinical challenge for sports medicine practitioners, there has been a heightened emphasis on concussion baselines. This has led to an increase in computerized neuro-psychological baselines that are initiated at the beginning of an athlete’s career and administered again upon a suspected concussion. However, their utility and reliability have been called into scrutiny. As the brain health of athletes rightly remains a key priority, there have been no studies positing a concussion baseline as part of an athlete’s exit health physical to document their brain health after their athletic career. The purpose of this report is to present a noncomputerized, objective, neurologically supported concussion baseline that can be used to document athletes’ brain health at the end of their careers. A total of 31 division-1 male collegiate football players were assessed using this baseline, and their data was reported.

CSP2023: 492 - The Injury Incident Rate of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries in Male Professional Football Players: A Systematic Review

CSP2023: 492 - The Injury Incident Rate of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries in Male Professional Football Players: A Systematic Review

Players are positive regarding injury prevention exercise programmes, but coaches need ongoing support: a survey-based evaluation using the Health Action Process Approach model across one season in amateur and youth football

ObjectivesImplementation of injury prevention exercise programmes (IPEPs) in sports is challenging, and behaviour change among players and coaches is essential for success. The aim was to describe players’ and coaches’...

Effects of 6-Week Motor-Cognitive Agility Training on Football Test Performance in Adult Amateur Players - A Three-Armed Randomized Controlled Trial.

Agility, defined as the ability to rapidly respond to unforeseen events, constitutes a central performance component in football. Existing agility training approaches often focus on change of direction that does not reflect the complex motor-cognitive demands on the pitch. The objective of this study is to examine the effects of a novel motor-cognitive dual-task agility training (Multiple-object tracking integrated into agility training) on agility and football-specific test performance parameters, compared to agility and a change of direction (COD) training. Adult male amateur football players (n = 42; age: 27±6; height: 181±7cm; weight: 80±12kg) were randomly allocated to one of the three intervention groups (COD, agility, agility + multiple object tracking). The Loughborough Soccer Passing Test (LSPT), a dribbling test with/without cognitive task as well as the Random Star Run (with/without ball) and the modified T-Test were assessed before and after a 6-week training period. Time effects within the T-Test (F = 83.9; p < 0.001; η2 = 0.68) and dribbling test without cognitive task (F = 23.9; p < 0.001; η2 = 0.38) with improvements of all intervention groups (p < 0.05) were found. Dribbling with cognitive task revealed a time effect (F = 7.8; p = 0.008; η2 = 0.17), with improvements exclusively in the agility and dual-task agility groups (p < 0.05). Random Star Run with and without ball exhibited a time (F = 38.8; p < 0.001; η2 = 0.5; F = 82.7; p < 0.001; η2 = 0.68) and interaction effect (F = 14.14; p < 0.001; η2 = 0.42; F = 27.8; p < 0.001; η2 = 0.59), with improvements for the agility and dual-task agility groups. LSPT showed no time, group or interaction effect. The effects of change of direction training are limited to change of direction and dribbling test performance within preplanned scenarios. In contrast, motor-cognitive agility interventions result in notable enhancements in football-specific and agility tests, incorporating decision-making and multitasking components. No differences were observed between agility and agility + multiple object tracking. To achieve a transfer to game-relevant performance, coaches should focus on integrating cognitive challenges into motor training.

The Screening Value of Single Leg Squat and Vertical Drop Jump for Predicting Lower Limb Injuries in Professional Male Football Players

The Screening Value of Single Leg Squat and Vertical Drop Jump for Predicting Lower Limb Injuries in Professional Male Football Players