Performance Of Players Research Articles

Enhancing physical attributes and performance in badminton players: efficacy of backward walking training on treadmill

BackgroundBadminton, a dynamic sport, demands players to display exceptional physical attributes such as agility, core stability, and reaction time. Backward walking training on a treadmill has garnered attention for its potential to enhance physical attributes and optimize performance in athletes while minimizing the risk of injuries.ObjectiveBy investigating the efficacy of this novel approach, we aim to provide valuable insights to optimize training regimens and contribute to the advancement of sports science in badminton.MethodologySixty-four participants were randomized into a control group (n = 32) and an experimental group (n = 32). The control group received routine exercise training, while the experimental group received routine exercise training along with additional backward walking training on the treadmill. Pre- and post-intervention measurements were taken for core stability using the Plank test, balance using the Star Excursion Balance test, reaction time using the 6-point footwork test, and agility using the Illinois Agility test.ResultsThe results showed that the experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in core stability (p < 0.001), balance (p < 0.001), reaction time (p < 0.05), and agility (p < 0.001) compared to the control group. The backward walking training proved to be effective in enhancing these physical attributes in badminton players.ConclusionIncorporating backward walking exercises into the training regimen of badminton players may contribute to their overall performance.

Exploring the relationships between potential, performance, and athleticism in elite youth soccer players

Talent identification of young soccer players is a significant consideration for elite youth soccer organisations, with decisions on players often being made based on the subjective expert opinion of scouts and coaches. Previous research has suggested that scouts and coaches purportedly consider a multitude of factors before arriving at their decisions. However, to date, limited research exists regarding how coaches evaluate player potential within such organisations and how the consideration of further data may influence such evaluations of a player's future potential. Therefore, the aim of this study was to present ratings of perceived potential in an elite youth soccer academy and explore the relationships between a player's perceived potential, athleticism, and perceived level of current match performance. Using 181 player observations, findings demonstrated that ratings of players’ perceived potential decreased within older age groups and were the lowest in the senior academy age group (U18). Furthermore, a mixed effects ordinal regression model suggested that coaches’ perceptions of a player's future potential demonstrated strong relationships with current match performance and athleticism. Increases in a player's mean match rating significantly increased the odds of them being perceived to have higher potential and increases in athleticism also demonstrated a positive relationship with increased perceptions of potential. The findings have implications for youth soccer organisations, providing insight into the distribution of ratings of potential within an elite youth soccer academy, and demonstrating that further data (match performance and athleticism) is related to, and may influence, coaches’ perceptions of player potential.

Shot mechanical analysis according to shooting performance in youth basketball players

In basketball, shooting stands out as a vital technique directly affecting the game results. Identifying shooting mechanics early in a basketball player's career can significantly develop shooting performance in subsequent years. This study aimed to explore shooting percentages based on angular positions of joint parts in the shooting techniques of youth basketball players. Fifteen male participants (average age: 14.1±0.7 years, height: 180.7±7.9 cm, body weight: 65.4±10.0 kg, sports experience: 4.7±0.4 years) voluntarily participated in the study. They were divided into high shooting rate (n: 7) and low shooting rate (n: 8) groups. Both groups attempted 60 shots from the free throw line (20 shots), right forward position (20 shots), and left forward position (20 shots). Joint angle values during the initial and final shooting phases were compared between groups using Independent t-tests. Significant differences were found between groups in the shoulder part during the beginning phase and the wrist part during the final shooting phase (p

Contemporary educational and behavior change strategies improve dietary practices around a match in professional soccer players.

The importance of nutrition in optimizing the health and performance of professional soccer players has been well established. Despite published practical recommendations for the dietary requirements for professional soccer players, many players fail to meet these guidelines. Thus, the primary purpose of this study was to assess the impact of targeted nutritional education and behavior change interventions on dietary intake in professional football players. Additionally, previous research within this population has reported elevations in resting metabolic rate (RMR) following match-play. Therefore, a further aim of this study was to examine whether any changes in dietary intake would influence RMR following match-play. Twenty players from the professional development phase in an English Premier League club (age: 18.4 ± 1.0 years; body mass: 76.1 ± 6.0 kg; stature: 1.80 ± 0.07 m) were randomly assigned to an "Intervention" (INT) group (n = 10), who received numerous nutritional education and behavior change interventions, or a "Control" (CON) group (n = 10), who received no nutrition support. Dietary intake was assessed daily throughout the match-week (Match Day (MD)-2, MD-1, MD, MD + 1, and MD + 2), whilst RMR was assessed on MD-1, MD + 1, and MD + 2. Statistical analyses on the intervention effects on dietary intake and RMR were carried out using a two factor (group and day) analysis of variance (ANOVA) with a subsequent Bonferroni post-hoc test. Mean energy (3393 ± 852 vs. 2572 ± 577 kcal · day-1) and CHO (5.36 ± 1.9 vs. 3.47 ± 1.1 g · kg-1 BW · day-1) intake was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the INT vs. CON group. Furthermore, the INT group implemented nutrition periodization practices as CHO intake was significantly increased on MD-1 (7.0 ± 1.7 g · kg-1 BM · day-1), MD (7.1 ± 1.4 g · kg-1 BM · day-1) and MD + 1 (5.1 ± 0.8 g · kg-1 BM · day-1). However, the CON group did not periodize their CHO intake and failed to meet the CHO recommendations on MD-1, MD, and MD + 1 (<4 g · kg-1 BM · day-1). Compared to MD-1, the RMR increased on MD + 1 and MD + 2 in both groups, although it was only statistically significant for the INT group (MD + 1 = +243 kcal · day-1; MD + 2 = +179 kcal · day-1). The implementation of targeted nutritional education and behavior change interventions resulted in improved dietary practices in professional football players and enabled better adherence to recommended guidelines. However, despite this, RMR was still elevated in the 24-48 h following match play. Thus, in order to optimize recovery, this finding further reinforces the need for professional football players to adopt strategies to meet energy, and particularly CHO, requirements in the acute period following a match in order to account for this increase in energy requirement.

Elite tennis player's perceptions of coaching effectiveness

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of six elite Chinese tennis players and their perspectives of coaching effectiveness within their sport. We collected data using two approaches: semi-structured interviews and player documents (e.g., detailed biographies, competition experience, and performance statistics). Data were analyzed using a reflexive thematic analysis to identify the coaches’ knowledge and behaviors that elite Chinese players considered to be effective and ineffective within the training and competitive landscape. We constructed two overarching themes to represent elite tennis player's perceptions regarding coaching effectiveness: (1) perceived coaching roles (i.e., the coach as a planner, teacher, and strategist), and (2) coaching as a social phenomenon (i.e., interpersonal styles and networks, effective and ineffective behaviors). Theoretically, this study aligns with the 3 + 1Cs model of the coach–athlete relationship and enriches the literature on coaching effectiveness in elite tennis. Practically, this study underscores the value of coaching knowledge and behaviors in shaping player's competitive performance and sociopsychological abilities and identifies recommendations for coaches and players to develop harmonious and meaningful relationships within the elite tennis context.

Classification of Football Players' Abilities Using The Naïve Baiyes Method

This study aims to classify the abilities of football players in the BRI Liga 1 Indonesia season 2023/2024 using the Naïve Bayes method. The player data used includes individual stats such as the number of goals, assists, passing accuracy, tackles, and overall performance in the match. The Naïve Bayes method was chosen because of its efficient ability to process data with independent features. In this study, players were classified into several ability categories, such as excellent, good, adequate, and poor, based on their performance during the current season. The results of this classification are expected to provide useful information for coaches and club management in determining strategies and player development. The study also provides insight into the key factors that affect a player's performance in the league. Model testing shows that Naïve Bayes' method has an adequate level of accuracy for the classification of football players' abilities in BRI Liga 1. The practical implications of this study are increased efficiency in the process of evaluating players and making strategic decisions in professional football teams.

Acute effect of injury-prevention-exercise-based warm-up vs. small-sided-game-based warm-up on speed performance in young amateur soccer players

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effects of an Injury-Prevention-Exercise (IPE)-based warm-up and a Small-Sided-Game (SSG)-based warm-up on subsequent speed performance in young soccer players. Method: Twelve male soccer players from the fourth division regional league in Algeria participated in the study. The participants completed both the IPE-based warm-up and the SSG-based warm-up in a counterbalanced order with a one-week interval between conditions. Linear and curved sprint performances, and change of direction (COD) speed, were assessed. Results: The results showed no significant differences between the two warm-up protocols in linear sprint performance (10m and 20m tests) or COD speed (zigzag test) (p &gt; .05). However, in curved sprinting, the IPE-based warm-up demonstrated a significant improvement in the 8.5m curve sprint on the right side (p = .017, ES = -1.04). No significant differences were observed in the other curved sprint variables (17m on both sides and 8.5m on the left side). Conclusion: the findings suggest that the IPE-based warm-up may enhance speed performance in curved sprints. However, both warm-up protocols had similar effects on linear sprint performance and COD speed. Coaches and Strength and conditioning coaches should consider incorporating neuromuscular exercises in warm-ups to optimize curved sprint performance in young soccer players.

Optimization and comparison of machine learning algorithms for the prediction of the performance of football players

Optimization and comparison of machine learning algorithms for the prediction of the performance of football players

Relationship between physical fitness parameters and match time motion performance in international footballers with cerebral palsy

ABSTRACT The goal of this study was to describe the physical performance of international football players with cerebral palsy (CP) using commonly employed field tests to determine whether these characteristics are correlated with, or even predictive of, physical performance during competitive matches. Ten international footballers with CP performed a physical performance assessment that included anthropometry, sprint capacity, change of direction ability and intermittent endurance conducted before a worldwide competition. Match running performances were recorded using global positioning system devices during five official matches, including speed and distance variables. Moderate-to-high correlations were found between 5-m and 30-m sprints with maximal acceleration, deceleration and distances covered at moderate-to-high intensities. The change of direction capacity correlated to maximal deceleration and high-intensity variables. Furthermore, intermittent endurance correlated with average velocity, total distance and distances covered at varying intensities. Multiple linear regression showed predictive relationships for maximal acceleration, average velocity, total distance and intensity-specific distances. Practitioners must consider the main test that correlates with the demands of the sport and key performance parameters in CP football. The results offer practical insights for optimising training strategies tailored to specific performance variables for match football performance.

The Relationship between Functional Movement Quality and Speed, Agility, and Jump Performance in Elite Female Youth Football Players.

The association between movement screening and physical fitness testing in athletes is conflicting, and therefore, this study aimed to examine the relationship between Functional Movement Screen (FMS) performance and physical performance in elite female youth football players. Twenty-two players from the national U16 team of Bosnia and Herzegovina underwent FMS and physical performance tests, including speed, agility, and jump assessments. Jump and speed performance score correlated well with ASLR, while the overall FMS score was not associated with any of the performance variables. These findings suggest that while certain movement patterns may impact athletic performance, the relationship between movement screening and physical performance is delicate. Coaches and practitioners should consider individual variations and sport-specific demands when interpreting FMS results in order to optimize and maximize athlete performance and reduce injury risks.

Effect of COVID-19 on Injury Incidence and Severity in Professional Female Football Players: A Cohort Prospective Study.

Earlier statements suggested a negative impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection on sports performance and injury risk. With the COVID-19 pandemic under control and the dominance of a less-severe strain of the virus, there is a need to confirm whether these adverse effects still apply to the current situation. Infected players would have a higher noncontact muscle injury incidence compared with noninfected counterparts. Cohort observational study. Level 3. Seven teams (n = 147 players) competing in the Spanish professional women's football league (Liga F) were prospectively monitored during the 2021-2022 season. Data from noncontact injuries were recorded and classified following the latest consensus statement from the International Olympic Committee. COVID-19 was certified by the medical staff by regular polymerase chain reaction analysis. Ninety-two players suffered at least 1 noncontact muscle injury during the season. Injury incidence during the season was similar in players with COVID-19 (n = 83) and players without infection (5.1 ± 6.7 versus 4.9 ± 10.0 injuries/1000 h of play, respectively; P = 0.90). Players with COVID-19 were not more likely to suffer noncontact injuries compared with those players without infection (R2 = 0.02; odds ratio [OR] 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 0.36-1.38; P = 0.31). There was no effect of COVID-19 on the days of absence due to injury (R2 = 0.01; OR 95% CI = 1.00-1.01; P = 0.44) or in the classification of the severity of the injury (P = 0.79). COVID-19 has no significant effect on noncontact injury incidence and severity in professional female football players. Currently, COVID-19 infection does not alter noncontact muscle injury risk in professional football and requires no further attention in terms of injury management. Usual return-to-play protocols apply to COVID-19 considering the particularities of each player since the severity of infection, period of inactivity, and effects on the player's health and performance.

Relationship between Countermovement Jump and Sprint Performance in Professional Football Players.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the countermovement jump (CMJ) and sprint performance of professional football players, and to determine which strength and speed elements assessed by the CMJ translate into effective running. Methods: The research sample comprised 87 male professional football players (age 23.7 ± 4.20 years; body mass 82.33 ± 6.56 kg; body height 1.86 ± 0.05 m) who performed the CMJ on a dual-force platform, as well as the 30 m sprint test. The time and velocity of the run were recorded by photocells at 0, 5, 10, and 30 m of the distance. Results: No significant differences were noted in the time or velocity of the sprint over the initial 5 m between the groups of football players with a higher and lower braking rate of force development (RFD) in the CMJ (p > 0.05). However, at subsequent intervals (5-10 m and 10-30 m), players with a higher braking RFD achieved significantly better time and velocity than those with a lower RFD. Significant correlations in the group with a lower braking RFD between the CMJ and sprint variables occurred in the propulsion phase of the CMJ and most of them were in the first interval (0-5 m). In the group with a higher braking RFD, significant relationships were visible in both the propulsion (concentric) and braking (eccentric) phases of the CMJ, mainly during the second and third intervals of the sprint test. Conclusions: The noted observations may suggest that the relationship between strength and running performance is more complex than previously indicated, and that higher strength in the CMJ does not fully correlate with better sprinting. Therefore, it has been hypothesized that training aimed at generally increasing strength may not always be fully beneficial for running performance in football players and hence specific training guidelines are suggested for targeted strengthening of the required muscle performance characteristics. This may possibly contribute to reducing the unnecessary muscle overload during both training and matches, thereby preventing sports-related injuries.

Can Complex Training Improve Acute and Long-Lasting Performance in Basketball Players? A Systematic Review

Basketball demands a sophisticated blend of tactical, technical, physical, and psychological skills, and various methods have been proposed to prepare players for these demands, including resistance training to enhance strength, power, speed, agility, and endurance. Complex training (CT) integrates diverse strength training methodologies by combining heavy-resistance exercises (e.g., squat at 90% of one repetition maximum) with high-velocity movements or plyometrics, both sharing the same biomechanical pattern. However, the optimal application of CT in basketball remains uncertain due to diverse protocols and a lack of consensus in the literature. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the acute and chronic effects of CT interventions on physical fitness performance in basketball players and identify the most effective characteristics of moderators. Methods: A bibliographic search was conducted using PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines using the PICOS strategy. Results: Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria, three articles analyzed acute effects, and thirteen analyzed chronic effects. The total number of participants in the studies analyzing acute effects was 50, while for studies examining chronic effects, it was 362. Conclusions: Acutely, CT triggers post-activation potentiation and enhances sprint performance when coupled with brief rest intervals. Over time, these acute improvements contribute to more substantial, long-lasting benefits. Chronic effects of CT improve strength, as evidenced by enhanced 1 RM performance, jumps, sprints, and core muscle strength.

Physiological Responses of Wheelchair Basketball Athletes to a Combined Aerobic and Anaerobic Training Program

Among the multifarious adapted sports, wheelchair basketball stands out as a highly recommended group activity among individuals with paraplegia, including those with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). Athletes facing this particular impairment exhibit distinct alterations in their metabolic, cardiorespiratory, neuromuscular, and thermoregulatory systems, ultimately leading to a diminished physiological respiratory capacity in comparison to able-bodied individuals or those with other forms of impairments. The primary objective of the present research endeavor is therefore to explore the impact of a comprehensive exercise regime, encompassing both aerobic and anaerobic components, upon the enhancement of the aerobic capacity of wheelchair basketball athletes. A total of 32 wheelchair basketball players, ranging in age from 34 to 42, were enlisted in the study, with half allocated to an experimental group engaging in combined aerobic and anaerobic training [EG, n = 16], while the remaining participants were assigned to a control group undertaking solely aerobic exercise training [CG, n = 16]. The 12-minute wheelchair propulsion distance was utilized to evaluate the V̇O2peak in individuals with paraplegia, both before and after the intervention. The findings revealed a significant Time x Group interaction for the 12-minute wheelchair propulsion distance variable, highlighting a notable enhancement in the treatment group (p &lt; 0.001). In contrast, no substantial changes were detected in the control group. Thus, the outcomes suggest that the integration of aerobic and anaerobic exercise yields a highly positive impact on the aerobic performance of wheelchair basketball players. Key words: physiology; exercise; sport; spinal cord injuries; cardiorespiratory fitness.

Biomechanical Analysis of Smash Stroke in Badminton: A Comparative Study of Elite and Recreational Players: a systematic review

Background and Study Aim: This study aims to conduct a biomechanical analysis of smash shots in badminton with a focus on the comparison between elite and recreational players. In this context, an in-depth understanding of the biomechanical characteristics of smash shots is expected to provide insight into the key factors that differentiate between elite and recreational players. By involving a systematic review of the existing literature, this study sought to make an essential contribution to a comprehensive understanding of the biomechanical aspects of smash shots.Material and Methods: This study utilized a systematic review design by conducting a literature search through several relevant databases. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established to select studies that fit the research objectives. The selection of elite and recreational players as research subjects was the main focal point, with significant biomechanical variables identified. Data analysis was conducted by detailing the key results related to smash shots of both groups of players. Results: A systematic analysis of the literature revealed significant differences in the biomechanics of smash shots between elite and recreational badminton players. Elite players exhibited more optimized movement patterns, racket speed and body coordination, giving them an edge in smash stroke execution. These findings reinforce the importance of certain biomechanical factors that need to be considered in the practice and development of smash shot skills to achieve higher levels of performance.Conclusions: Based on systematic analysis, the conclusion of this study confirms that elite badminton players have significantly different biomechanical characteristics in smash shots compared to recreational players. The implication is that specialized drills and training can be directed towards improving certain biomechanical aspects to enhance smash stroke performance. This study provides an essential foundation for the development of more effective training methods in improving the technical abilities of badminton players, both for those at the elite and recreational levels. Keywords: Smash Stroke Biomechanics, Badminton, Comparison of Elite and Recreational Players, Systematic Review, Badminton Player Performance Analysis

Pitch-Tracking Metrics as a Predictor of Future Shoulder and Elbow Injuries in Major League Baseball Pitchers: A Machine-Learning and Game-Theory Based Analysis.

Understanding interactions between multiple risk factors for shoulder and elbow injuries in Major League Baseball (MLB) pitchers is important to identify potential avenues by which risk can be reduced while minimizing impact on player performance. To apply a novel game theory-based approach to develop a machine-learning model predictive of next-season shoulder and elbow injuries in MLB pitchers and use this model to understand interdependencies and interaction effects between the most important risk factors. Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Pitcher demographics, workload measures, pitch-tracking metrics, and injury data between 2017 and 2022 were used to construct a database of MLB pitcher-years, where each item in the database corresponded to a pitcher's information and metrics for that year. An extreme gradient boosting machine-learning model was trained to predict next-season shoulder and elbow injuries utilizing Shapley additive explanation values to quantify feature importance as well as interdependencies and interaction effects between predictive variables. A total of 3808 pitcher-years were included in this analysis; 606 (15.9%) of these involved a shoulder or elbow injury resulting in placement on the MLB injured list. Of the >65 candidate features (including workload, demographic, and pitch-tracking metrics), the most important contributors to predicting shoulder/elbow injury were increased: pitch velocity (all pitch types), utilization of sliders (SLs), fastball (FB) spin rate, FB horizontal movement, and player age. The strongest game theory interaction effects were that higher FB velocity did not alter a younger pitcher's predicted risk of shoulder/elbow injury versus older pitchers, risk of shoulder/elbow injury increased with the number of high-velocity pitches thrown (regardless of pitch type and in an additive fashion), and FB velocity <95 mph (<152.9 kph) demonstrated strong negative interaction effects with higher SL percentage, suggesting that the overall predicted risk of injury for pitchers throwing a high number of SLs could be attenuated by lower FB velocity. Pitch-tracking metrics were substantially more predictive of future injury than player demographics and workload metrics. There were many significant game theory interdependencies of injury risk. Notably, the increased risk of injury that was conferred by throwing with a high velocity was even further magnified if the pitchers were also older, threw a high percentage of SLs, and/or threw a greater number of pitches.

Validity of a motor-cognitive dual-task agility test in elite youth football players.

Agility, as the ability to react rapidly to unforeseen events, is an essential component of football performance. However, existing agility diagnostics often do not reflect the complex motor-cognitive interaction required on the field. Therefore, this study evaluates the criterion and ecological validity of a newly developed motor-cognitive dual-task agility approach in elite youth football players and compare it to a traditional reactive agility test. Twenty-one male youth elite football players (age:17.4±0.6; BMI:23.2±1.8) performed two agility tests (reactive agility, reactive agility with integrated multiple-object-tracking (Dual-Task Agility)) on the SKILLCOURT system. Performance was correlated to motor (sprint, jump), cognitive (executive functions, attention, reaction speed) and football specific tests (Loughborough soccer passing test (LSPT)) as well as indirect game metrics (coaches' rating, playing time). Reactive agility performance showed moderate correlations to attention and choice reaction times (r=0.48-0.63), as well as to the LSPT (r=0.51). The dual-task agility test revealed moderate relationships with attention and reaction speed (r=0.47-0.58), executive functions (r=0.45-0.63), as well as the game metrics (r=0.51-0.61). Finally, the dual-task agility test significantly differentiated players based on their coaches' rating and playing time using a median split (p<0.05; d=0.8-1.28). Motor-cognitive agility performance in elite youth football players seems to be primarily determined by cognitive functions. The integration of multiple object tracking into reactive agility testing seems to be an ecologically valid approach for performance diagnostics in youth football.

Brain endurance training improves soccer-specific technical skills and cognitive performance in fatigued professional soccer players

ObjectivesBrain Endurance Training (BET) — the addition of mentally fatiguing cognitive tasks to standard physical training — could improve performance in soccer. We tested whether BET, with cognitive tasks intermixed with physical training activities, improved players' cognitive and soccer-specific technical performance compared to physical training alone when fresh and fatigued. DesignThe study employed a pre/training/midtest/training/posttest design. Methods31 professional male soccer players were randomly assigned to BET or control groups and completed 18 physical training sessions over 6 weeks. In between the physical training activities, the BET group completed demanding cognitive tasks, whereas the control group rested. Players completed the Loughborough soccer passing (LSPT) and shooting test (LSST) before and after completing a 30-min Stroop task. A brief psychomotor vigilance test (PVT-B), a visual analog rating of mental fatigue (MF-VAS), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured during testing and training. ResultsDuring testing, the 30-min Stroop task elicited a state of MF, confirmed by higher subjective ratings (P < .01). Compared to pre-testing, at mid- and post-testing, the BET group improved passing (all P < .01), shooting (all P < .01), and PVT-B performance (all P < .01) when tested after (fatigued) but not before (fresh) the Stroop task, whereas the control group did not change performance either way. During training the BET group reported higher MF (P < .01) and exhibited slower PVT-B responses (P < .01) compared to control. ConclusionsIntermixed BET was more effective than physical training alone at improving cognitive and soccer-specific technical performance of professional soccer players when fatigued.

Anthropometric, body composition and physical performance of elite young Italian football players and differences between selected and unselected talents

Football is a team sport played worldwide and specific competition demands are needed since young categories. Several physiological and psychological aspects could influence the selection process, and adolescent investigations still be necessary. This retrospective study aims to compare anthropometric and performance features between selected and unselected adolescent footballers. The sample size was 78 players from U10 to U12 categories. Maturation, RAE, anthropometry, and physical performance (repeated sprint ability (RSA), 15-m sprint, countermovement jump (CMJ) and Harre's test) were evaluated (mean ± SD). 33.3 % of players were selected (height = 144.06 ± 6.74 cm, weight = 35.38 ± 4.56 kg) and 66.7 % were unselected (height = 143.06 ± 8.34 cm, weight = 35.94 ± 6.24 kg). Selected U10 were leaner and got the peak of height velocity (APHV) earlier (p < 0.05) than unselected U10 players, while U11 selected were faster than unselected (p < 0.05). Also, the RSA test, APHV and the humeral width well discriminated among the selection (χ2(3) = 12; p < 0.01). Football field technicians involved in scouting need quantitative and qualitative information that could help to predict talented players. Although physical performance test results and body height led to decisions, further anthropometric features and maturation could provide relevant support.

Effect of Soccer Boot Outsole Configuration on Translational Traction Across Both Natural and Artificial Playing Surfaces.

Soccer boots are produced with different stud patterns and configurations to provide players with extra traction on specific surface types to minimize slipping and improve player performance. Excessive traction, however, can lead to foot fixation injuries, particularly anterior cruciate ligament tears. The purpose of this study was to explore the translational traction properties of 5 different outsole configurations moving in 4 different directions across both natural grass and artificial grass (AG) playing surfaces. It was hypothesized that longer studs or studs with an asymmetric shape would yield a higher traction coefficient compared with the recommended stud configuration for the given playing surface. Descriptive laboratory study. A custom-built testing apparatus recorded the translational traction of 5 different soccer boots moving in an anterior, posterior, medial, or lateral direction on both natural grass and AG playing surfaces. A 3-way analysis of variance was performed to determine the effect of outsole configuration on the traction, and a post hoc Tukey analysis was performed to compare different outsole configurations with a control. For the natural grass playing surface, the longer and asymmetric studs yielded a significantly higher (P < .05) traction coefficient on 75% of loading scenarios, while on AG, they yielded a significantly higher traction on 50% of loading scenarios. Some soccer boots yielded higher traction values compared with the recommended configuration. The results highlight the importance of boot selection on different playing surfaces. Higher traction values could increase the injury risk for players due to excessive traction and foot fixation.