As previous literature updates, I have performed a PubCrawler search looking for football articles in NCBI Medline (PubMed) and GenBank databases.
Following studies were retrieved for this week:
1 A criteria-based progressive rehabilitation program for rectus femoris strain in a recreational soccer player: a case report
Reference: Front Bioeng Biotechnol. 2024 Aug 8:12:1385786. doi: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1385786. eCollection 2024.
Authors: Ángel González-de-la-Flor, Guillermo García-Pérez-de-Sevilla
Download link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/bioengineering-and-biotechnology/articles/10.3389/fbioe.2024.1385786/full
Summary: The purpose of this study was to describe the criteria-based progressive rehabilitation program implemented on a recreational soccer player diagnosed with a grade 1 rectus femoris strain. A 33-year-old male injured the rectus femoris muscle. At the first physical examination, the patient showed significant physical impairment due to important limitations to the active range of motion of the knee flexion and the hip flexor strength. The rehabilitation program consisted of specific training of the rectus femoris, lumbopelvic stabilization, mobility exercises, and running technique exercises, for 6 weeks, which was divided into three phases. Each week, the patient performed four rehabilitation sessions, combined with cross-training (swimming), to maintain his cardiorespiratory capacity. The patient improved functionally and returned to play soccer 6 weeks after the injury without pain. Moreover, the patient passed the criteria of each phase at week 2 for phase 1, at week 4 for phase 2 and at week 6 for phase 3. This case study demonstrates that criteria of progression may control the return to sport timetable for recreational soccer players according to the functional and clinical limitations throughout the entire treatment.
2 Effects of an 8-Week In-Season Explosive Power Training Program on Neuromuscular Performance and Lower-Limb Asymmetries in Young Male Soccer Players
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2024 Aug 14. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000004917. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Stylianos S Vasileiou, Nikolaos D Asimakidis, Athanasios A Dalamitros, Vasiliki Manou
Summary: This study analyzed the effects of incorporating 8 weeks of twice-weekly explosive power training on neuromuscular performance and lower-limb asymmetries applied to soccer. Thirty-five young male soccer players were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (EXP: n = 18; mean age: 13.7 ± 0.8 years; height: 166.9 ± 8.4 cm; body mass: 58.5 ± 12.8 kg) or the control group (CON: n = 17; mean age: 13.7 ± 0.9 years; height: 168.8 ± 9.1 cm; body mass: 58.0 ± 11.4 kg). Before (TP1) and after the training period (TP2) neuromuscular performance (countermovement jump [CMJ], 10 and 20 m sprint times [T10 and T20], change of direction ability [COD]) and lower-limb asymmetries (single-leg CMJ [SLCMJ]) were evaluated. The asymmetry index (AI) for COD and CMJ tests was also calculated. Significant differences (from TP1 to TP2) were revealed for all the tested parameters in the EXP group (1.50-4.9%, p < 0.00 to 0.12, effect size [ES] = -0.44 to 0.27). For the CON group, T10, T20 505 for nondominant limb and SLCMJ performances for both limbs were significantly improved (0.85 to 1.5%, p < 0.00 to 0.21, ES = -0.36 to 0.37). Finally, the AI remained relatively unchanged for both tests and groups (1.28-3.33%, p = 0.162-0.521). These results indicate that adding twice-weekly explosive power training for 8 weeks can improve neuromuscular performance and reduce lower-limb asymmetries to a greater degree than soccer training alone in young male soccer players.
3 Deceleration Capacity During Directional Change as a Time-Efficient (Ecological) Prescreening of Hip Adductor Force Status in Amateur Soccer Players
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2024 Aug 14. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000004915. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Aaron Miralles-Iborra, Juan Del Coso, Javier De Los Ríos-Calonge, Jose L L Elvira, David Barbado, Tomas Urban, Victor Moreno-Pérez
Summary: Reduced isometric adductor muscle strength has been identified as a modifiable risk factor contributing to injury in soccer players. However, the measurement of hip adductor muscle strength is habitually laboratory-based, with isolated hip movements that do not reflect soccer-specific movements that induce groin injury during match play. This study aimed to determine the usefulness of deceleration capacity during a change of direction (COD) as a time-efficient (ecological) prescreening of hip adductor force status in soccer players. Nineteen amateur soccer players completed unilateral isometric hip adductor strength assessments and a 180° COD test. Isometric hip strength assessment included the maximum peak torque (PT) and maximum rate of torque development (RTDmax) relative to players‘ body mass. Players‘ deceleration capacity during the COD test was determined for each leg through maximum deceleration normalized to the linear momentum. A linear regression analysis was performed to associate isometric hip strength variables with the deceleration capacity during the COD test at each leg. There was not a statistically significant association between deceleration capacity and hip isometric maximum PT of the dominant and nondominant legs (r ≤ 0.14, p > 0.05). Nevertheless, a moderate association was found between deceleration capacity and RTDmax for both legs (r ≥ 0.58, p < 0.05). The optimal linear regression model suggests that measuring deceleration capacity during a directional change test could explain RTDmax by 33 and 43% for the dominant and nondominant legs, respectively. During a 180° COD test, the deceleration capacity captured through GPS-accelerometer device was limited as a prescreening tool to evaluate hip adductor force status in soccer players.
4 Acute Effects of Foam Rolling vs. Vibration Foam Rolling on Blood Flow Parameters in Professional Soccer Players: A Randomized Crossover Design
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2024 Aug 14. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000004896. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Alexis Padrón-Cabo, Alejandra Alonso-Calvete, Łukasz Radzimiński, Ezequiel Rey, Miguel Lorenzo-Martínez
Summary: The study aimed to compare the effects of foam roller (FR) and vibration foam roller (VFR) on blood flow parameters, measured by Doppler ultrasonography in professional soccer players. A randomized crossover design was used, and 10 professional soccer players participated in 3 experimental sessions: FR, VFR, and a control condition (CC). The maximum velocity (MVel) and maximum volume (MVol) blood flow parameters were measured in the common femoral artery of the dominant leg at 5 different time points as follows: before (pre), immediately after (post 0′), 10 (post 10′), 20 (post 20′), and 30 minutes (post 30′) after the intervention. Both FR and VFR involved two 45-second sets with 15-second rest between sets in the quadriceps and hamstring, while CC required sitting for 240 seconds. The FR condition showed a significant increase in MVel (p < 0.01) at all time points after the intervention, and an increase in MVol (p < 0.05) only at post 0′ compared with pre. The VFR condition showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in MVel at post 0′ and post 10′ and an increase (p < 0.05) in MVol at post 0′ compared with pre. In comparison with CC, the FR and VFR conditions presented significantly (p < 0.05) higher MVel values at post 0′, post 10′, post 20′, and post 30′ than CC. For both FR and VFR conditions, the MVol not only revealed a significant (p < 0.05) increase at post 0′ but also at post 10′ for VFR compared with CC. In summary, the FR and VFR interventions demonstrated a similar increase in blood flow parameters, suggesting that both strategies may accelerate physiological recovery in elite soccer players.
5 Injury Risk in Elite Young Male Soccer Players: A Review on the Impact of Growth, Maturation, and Workload
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2024 Aug 14. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000004889. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Nuno Ribeiro, Diogo V Martinho, João R Pereira, André Rebelo, Xabier Monasterio, Oliver Gonzalo-Skok, João Valente-Dos-Santos, Francisco Tavares
Summary: The long-term development of young male soccer players involves a prolonged period of significant adjustments, highlighting the importance of studying the complex interaction between dynamic variables, including workload, and inherent elements like growth and maturity. This analysis examines the intricate connections involving the development, maturity, workload, and susceptibility to injuries among adolescent male soccer players. Significantly, these connections become prominent at the peak height velocity (PHV) period, a crucial moment in maturation. Growth rates vary among individuals, and higher rates have been associated with an increased risk of injury in young soccer players, particularly during periods of rapid growth. Identifying possible risk factors and understanding the complex connections between them is crucial to developing specific methods for reducing the risk of injury. Sharing this valuable information with essential stakeholders is crucial for guaranteeing young athletes‘ comprehensive growth and maturation process. Furthermore, this review emphasizes the immediate need for long-term studies and thorough injury analyses to comprehend better the dynamic interactions that influence injury patterns in young male soccer players. This review will allow practitioners to better understand the main modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors for injury and provide essential information focusing on practical strategies, facilitating more informed decision making by all stakeholders. The review aims to clarify these complexities and offer crucial insights that can assist in designing and implementing efficient strategies to reduce the risk of injury, specifically for the challenges faced during PHV and within the broader framework of long-term athletic development in young soccer.
6 Jump Squat Vs. Resisted Sprint Training Programs Applied to Elite Youth Soccer Players: Effects on Sprint and Power-Related Performance
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2024 Aug 14. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000004918. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Irineu Loturco, Lucas A Pereira, Valter P Mercer, Lucas P Oliveira, Vinicius Zanetti, Lucas Lima, Thiago Bastos, Túlio B M A Moura, Michael R McGuigan
Summary: This study examined the effectiveness of 2 different and widely used training programs on the sprint and power-related performance of youth soccer players. Two distinct training strategies-vertically oriented jump squats (JSs) or horizontally oriented resisted sprints (RSs)-were executed under the same absolute loading conditions (i.e., 30% of the athletes‘ body mass [BM]) during a 4-week preseason period. Training schemes, loading intensities (based on %BM), and the number of experimental sessions were designed in conjunction with the soccer club’s coaching staff, considering the calendar, available resources, and regular training programs. Twenty-five under-17 soccer players performed a series of speed, power, and jump tests before and after 10 resisted training sessions, consisting solely of loaded JS or RS. Overall, neither group (i.e., JS or RS training groups) exhibited any improvement in linear sprint and change-of-direction (COD) speed. Conversely, vertical jumping ability and peak velocity in the loaded JS increased significantly only in the JS group, which may positively affect players‘ performance and training prescription during short soccer preseasons. Given the challenges in enhancing sprint speed among soccer players during preseasons (and even over the competitive season), coupled with the limited effectiveness of RS in improving sprinting, COD, and jumping capabilities within congested and short training phases (i.e., ≤4 weeks), the regular use of RS training methods during these phases may be highly questionable. Coaches should carefully consider these critical limitations and potential disadvantages when designing neuromuscular training programs for soccer players during the preparatory phases of the annual training season.
7 Hip adduction and abduction strength values in elite-level male and female youth soccer players: A comparison between sexes, and across age-groups
Reference: Phys Ther Sport. 2024 Aug 22:70:7-14. doi: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2024.08.006. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Ciaran O‘ Connor, Ross Chrystal, Martin Mc Intyre, Eamonn Delahunt, Kristian Thorborg
Summary: The aim was to report isometric hip adduction squeeze and abduction press strength values of elite-level youth male and female soccer players and examine if differences exist between sexes, and age-groups. 102 soccer players (n = 64; male, n = 38 female) competing in the national youth soccer leagues from under (U) 14-19 years of age level (U-14, U-15, U-17, U-19) participated in this study. Isometric hip adduction and abduction strength values were measured with a ForceFrame in various testing positions. Isometric hip adduction and abduction strength values are presented. Male U-17 and U-19 players demonstrated significantly greater (p < 0.05) absolute(N) and relative (N/kg) hip adduction and abduction strength than their female counterparts, with large (η2 = 0.068-0.227) and medium-to-large (η2 = 0.049-0.234) effect size, respectively. Significant differences in absolute strength, but not relative strength, were observed for hip adduction and abduction between male age-groups (U-14, U-15, U-17, U-19), with hip abduction strength differences only existing between U-14 and U-17 groups. No significant differences in hip strength were observed between U-17 and U-19 groups for female players. Male youth soccer players have higher absolute and relative hip adduction and abduction strength than females at the U-17 and U-19 level.
8 The effects of heading motion and sex on lower extremity biomechanics in soccer players
Reference: Knee. 2024 Aug 22:50:154-162. doi: 10.1016/j.knee.2024.08.001. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Joshua T Weinhandl, Alfayyadh Abdulmajeed, Lauren E Dami, Songning Zhang, Eugene C Fitzhugh
Summary: Soccer is one of the most popular sports worldwide, which subsequently increases the number of injuries experienced by players. Furthermore, a large percentage of all anterior cruciate ligament injuries occur while playing soccer. In order to more clearly understand injury mechanisms, it is important to make the testing environment as real-life as possible. Inclusion of an external focus and secondary task, such as heading a soccer ball, may increase joint loading during landing. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a forward heading motion on lower extremity kinetics and kinematics between sexes during a stop-jump task and a jump-heading task. Ten male and ten female soccer players performed stop-jumps with no soccer ball present and jump-headings with a soccer ball present. Three-dimensional kinematics and kinetics were collected and analyzed during the landing. 2 × 2 mixed design analysis of variances (ANOVA) were performed to examine sex × jump task interactions and determine the main effects of sex and jump task. Results indicated jump-heading yields greater peak vertical ground reaction forces, an 8% increase in peak knee extension moments, a reduced initial knee flexion angle by approximately 5°, and an increased initial hip flexion angle by approximately 7°. Additionally, females exhibited 5.6° greater peak knee abduction angles compared to men, regardless of task. Inclusion of an overhead target may have distracted the athletes from focusing on frontal plane knee control when landing, and could potentially lead to increased ACL stress.
9 Physical Conditioning and Functional Injury-Screening Profile of Elite Female Soccer Players: A Systematic Review
Reference: Int J Sports Physiol Perform. 2024 Aug 23:1-12. doi: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0463. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Maitane Ruiz-Rios, Igor Setuain, Eduardo L Cadore, Mikel Izquierdo, Ibai Garcia-Tabar
Summary: The aim was to identify the physical conditioning and functional injury-screening characteristics of elite female soccer players. This review was prospectively registered (PROSPERO CRD4202346765). Searches were conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science (from inception in March 2023 to July 2023). Updated searches were conducted in October 2023 and April 2024. Included studies were quantitative studies conducted on female soccer players. Main outcomes were functional and physical profiles. Screening, data extraction, and quality assessment (Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies and the Oxford Levels of Evidence scales) were performed. Mean differences between preseason and in-season testing periods were estimated by Hedges g effect size. Methods and results were reported according to PRISMA guidelines. The search yielded 1727 articles, of which 10 were included. Overall methodological quality of the studies was strong, with a moderate level of evidence. Players exhibited mean maximal oxygen uptake of 52.6 (4.5) mL·min-1·kg-1, 20-m linear-sprint performance of 3.58 (0.18) seconds, countermovement jump of 31.0 (2.9) cm, unilateral countermovement jump of 14.4 (2.1) cm, and quadriceps and hamstring peak torque at 60°·s-1 of 133 (23) and 87 (17) N·m, respectively. Mean scores recorded during in-season were 2% to 22% better than in preseason (effect size: small to very large). This review provides valuable normative physical conditioning and functional injury-risk assessment data for elite female soccer players. Coaches and conditioning staff can use these insights to interpret their own records and optimize their training processes. Furthermore, this study identifies methodological limitations to address in future research.
10 Training loads and microcycle periodisation in Italian Serie A youth soccer players
Reference: J Sports Sci. 2024 Aug 22:1-11. doi: 10.1080/02640414.2024.2391648. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Alberto Franceschi, Mark A Robinson, Daniel J Owens, Thomas Brownlee, Theodoros M Bampouras, Duccio Ferrari Bravo, Kevin Enright
Summary: Microcycles are fundamental structures for training prescription and load management, helping to optimise training effects and performance. This study quantified external and internal loads of Italian Serie A youth soccer players across competitive weeks and their periodisation within microcycles. Data were collected from 90 players belonging to four age groups (under-19, -17, -16, -15) across a season. Methods of monitoring external [duration and global navigation satellite systems (GNSS)] and internal load [heart rate (HR) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE)] were employed. Linear mixed models determined differences in training loads across age groups, training days and player positions. Under-19 and under-17 players trained five times per week, while younger players trained four times. Late-stage academy players (under-19 and -17) demonstrated higher weekly accumulated external and sRPE training load compared to their younger counterparts (p < 0.05 between groups). Weekly accumulated HR internal loads were higher in under-15 players (p < 0.05 between groups). Marked fluctuations of daily load were observed across microcycles in under-19 and under-17 groups (p < 0.05 between days). These findings highlight progressive increases in training load throughout the development pathway, with late-stage academy players training with higher frequency, volume and marked periodisation compared to younger players.
11 No Impact of Anthropometric and Fitness Factors on Speed-Agility in Young Soccer Players: Is It a Cognitive Influence?
Reference: Int J Sports Physiol Perform. 2024 Aug 21:1-10. doi: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0438. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Matteo Giuriato, Vittoria Carnevale Pellino, Adam Kawczyński, Scott W Talpey, Nicola Lovecchio
Summary: Agility in young soccer players has long been associated with physical attributes like strength, speed, and power. The aims of this study were to investigate the relationship between cognitive factors and agility performance in this unique population. 39 young soccer players age 13.56 (SD 0.58) years were assessed for leg-muscle function (jump tests) and maturation status (peak height velocity). The Y-Agility Test, which included decision making in players, was used to measure performance. Cognitive factors such as perceptual skills and decision making were evaluated with the Y-Agility Test. The linear regression showed an absence of significance between the Y-Agility Test and drop-jump contact (P = .283), Y-Agility Test and drop-jump flight (P = .185), Y-Agility Test and squat jump (P = .868), and Y-Agility Test and countermovement jump (P = .310). The linear mixed-model analyses suggested a difference between early-average maturers (P = .009) and early-late maturers (P = .005) but did not show a difference between average-late subjects (P = 1.000). Drop-jump flight did not show a difference in maturation (early-average P = 1.000; early-late P = 1.000; average P = 1.000). Squat-jump performance did not demonstrate any significance (early-average P = .618; early-late P = 1.000; P = 1.000). Countermovement-jump performance did not show any significance (early-average P = 1.000; early-late P = 1.000; average-late P = .492). Finally, agility performance does not show any significance between maturation levels (early-average maturer P = .450; early-late P = 1.000; average-late P = .830). Agility in young soccer players appears to follow a nonlinear trajectory, with cognitive factors possibly playing a more significant role than previously thought.
12 Impact of Soccer-Based Training Interventions on Anthropometric Measures Among Children and Adolescents With Overweight/Obesity: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Assessment of Certainty of Evidence
Reference: Pediatr Exerc Sci. 2024 Aug 21:1-10. doi: 10.1123/pes.2024-0028. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Manel Kerkeni, Khaled Trabelsi, Mohamed Kerkeni, Achraf Ammar, Abdul Rashid Aziz, Jordan M Glenn, Wassim Moalla, Hamdi Chtourou, Haitham Jahrami
Summary: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to systematically examine and summarize recent evidence on the effects of soccer-based training (SBT) on anthropometric measures in children and adolescents with overweight/obesity. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis 2020 guidelines, a thorough literature search across 7 electronic databases was conducted on October 11, 2023. The studies‘ methodological quality was evaluated using the QualSyst tool, followed by conducting a meta-analysis with a random-effects model, and the certainty of evidence was assessed. Six studies were included, with 4 studies of strong methodological quality and 2 studies of moderate methodological quality. The results of the meta-analysis revealed SBT decreases fat mass percentage (effect size [ES] = 0.47 [small]; P = .002), with no significant effect of SBT on body mass index (ES = 0.180 [small]; P = .275), body mass (ES = 0.183 [trivial]; P = .212), fat-free mass (ES = 0.074 [trivial]; P = .635), or waist circumference (ES = 0.358 [small]; P = .053). The certainty of evidence was moderate for all outcomes. SBT appears to decrease fat mass percentage, without affecting body mass, body mass index, fat-free mass, or waist circumference in obese/overweight children and adolescents. These findings require further investigation given the moderate certainty of evidence.
13 Examining the link between coach-athlete relationship and athlete burnout among college soccer players: the mediating role of training satisfaction
Reference: Front Psychol. 2024 Aug 6:15:1409609. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1409609. eCollection 2024.
Authors: Liu Jiahao, Li Jing
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11334079/pdf/fpsyg-15-1409609.pdf
Summary: Athlete burnout is an adverse factor that usually decreases athletes‘ sports performance and reduces their passion for athletic career development. The present study examined the association of coach-athlete relationship, training satisfaction, and athlete burnout, and then explored the training satisfaction as a mediating role of the effect of coach-athlete relationship on athlete burnout among college soccer players. Soccer players from seven Chinese higher education institutions were recruited for the study. The participants were selected using stratified random sampling and included 218 participants. The Coach-Athlete Relationship Scale, Training Satisfaction Scale, and Athlete Burnout Questionnaire were used to collect data from the participants. Pearson’s product-moment correlation analysis, linear regression analysis, and bootstrap method were conducted to analyze the collected data set. The results showed that (1) there was a significant correlation between coach-athlete relationship, training satisfaction, and athlete burnout. (2) coach-athlete relationship and training satisfaction significantly negatively predicted athlete burnout (β = -0.39, p < 0.001; β = – 0.29, p < 0.001). (3) training satisfaction had a significantly mediating effect on the relationship between coach-athlete relationship and athlete burnout (β = -0.15, p < 0.001, ES = 0.28). Coach-athlete relationship can not only directly negative impact athlete burnout but can also negatively influence athlete burnout through the mediating effect of training satisfaction. Therefore, we suggest the following to alleviate athlete burnout: on one hand, coaches can provide more communication opportunities for athletes to improve the coach-athlete relationship. On the other hand, teams can enhance training satisfaction by building team culture.
14 The Physical Progress of a Professional Scottish Soccer Academy Over a Ten-Year Period
Reference: Open Access J Sports Med. 2024 Aug 12:15:101-110.
doi: 10.2147/OAJSM.S477808. eCollection 2024.
Authors: Thomas P Craig, Patrick Maughan, Michael Peter McArdle, David R Clark, Donald Reid
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11328845/pdf/oajsm-15-101.pdf
Summary: Increases in high-intensity locomotor activity of match play have been recorded in elite soccer. This places an onus on academy practitioners to develop players for the future demands of the game. At an academy level, locomotor data are not available for analysis over a longitudinal period, and thus changes can only be assessed with physical attribute assessment. The aim of the present study is to establish if changes in physical capacity were observed in a professional Scottish soccer academy over a ten-year period. A retrospective analysis was completed where linear mixed effect (LME) models were individually fitted to explain variation across each measure of physical capacity. Model selection was undertaken with likelihood ratio tests where the initial complex models were compared to simpler nested models to arrive at the final model by maximum likelihood. The main findings were that most recent players‘ sprint test data revealed a significant improvement in 5m, 10m and 20m sprint performance, greater increases in CMJ performance in older age groups, and greater increases in YYIR1 performance at U13 and U14. Most physical results showed increased performance with greater relative height and weight. Players recruited more recently to academies are fitter than they were previously. Reference values within clubs that establish first team requirements will contribute to appropriate planning and implementation of training.
15 Mitigating the Risks of Lower Extremity Injuries in Soccer: A Comprehensive Analysis of Lower Extremity Injury Rates in Soccer Between 2014 and 2023
Reference: Orthop Rev (Pavia). 2024 Aug 15:16:122315. doi: 10.52965/001c.122315. eCollection 2024.
Authors: Anish Amirneni, Jasra Elahi, Nofel Iftikhar, Latha Ganti
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11329367/pdf/orthopedicreviews_2024_16_122315.pdf
Summary: With events such as the Copa America 2024, the 2026 World Cup, and the arrival of European stars in Major League Soccer (MLS), the already observed and forecasted rise of soccer in the United States (US) seems to be an inevitable outcome. Although regular participation in soccer features several benefits, including increasing cardiovascular health, decreasing stress, and promoting interpersonal relationships, the risk of injury, as is the case in any sport, is ever present. Although many sports that are popular in America feature high rates of concussion, rotator cuff injuries, and general upper extremity injuries, soccer, being more strenuous on the lower-half of the body, features a disproportionate rate of lower extremity injuries. An analysis of the frequencies of these injuries, relative to factors such as year of injury, age, gender, location of injury, and diagnosis of injury, may help organizational bodies and soccer leagues implement new regulations regarding the usage of protective equipment and rules regarding gameplay. This study aims to illuminate these takeaways in an effort to better patient care outcomes in soccer-related injuries. This paper utilized the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System Database (NEISS) to compile data on lower extremity soccer-related injuries within the defined study period, 2014-2023. Inclusion criteria for the study involved all patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) within the study period and within the defined age range of 0 to 69 years old, with injuries sustained from or related to soccer. Using NEISS, trends were elucidated discriminating based on year of injury, sex, age group, location of injury, and diagnosis group of injury. Within the defined study period of 10 years, from 2014-2023, there were approximately 843,063 total soccer-related lower extremity injuries which presented to various EDs across the US. Regarding majorities, the most injuries were sustained in 2014 (12.84% of total injuries), most patients sustaining injuries were male (66.6% of all patients), and within the age range of 10-19 years old (63.24% of all patients), with the most instances occurring at age 15. Lower extremity injuries were most reported to be affecting the ankle with 306,797 incidences (36.39% of total injuries seen) and the most frequent diagnosis group was reported to be strains/sprains with 396,420 (47.02% of total injuries seen) total occurrences. This study analyzes the incidents of lower extremity injuries while participating in soccer for the last 10 years, 2014-2023. The study provides new data regarding the frequency of injuries and their relative rate with respect to year of injury, age group, sex, location of injury, and diagnosis. The results of this study show injury majorities and trends which can be used to dictate changes in regulation regarding gameplay and the utilization of protective equipment in order to mitigate injuries related to the lower extremities in soccer.
16 Training with reduced carbohydrate availability affects markers of bone resorption and formation in male academy soccer players from the English Premier League
Reference: Eur J Appl Physiol. 2024 Aug 18. doi: 10.1007/s00421-024-05574-4. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Reuben Stables, Liam Anderson, Craig Sale, Marcus P Hannon, Rachel Dunn, Jonathan C Y Tang, William D Fraser, Nessan B Costello, Graeme L Close, James P Morton
Download link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00421-024-05574-4
Summary: The aim waso test the hypothesis that training with reduced carbohydrate (CHO) availability increases bone resorption in adolescent soccer players. In a randomised crossover design, ten male players (age: 17.4 ± 0.8 years) from an English Premier League academy completed an acute 90-min field-based training session (occurring between 10:30-12:00) in conditions of high (TRAIN HIGH; 1.5 g.kg-1, 60 g, 1.5 g.kg-1 and 1.5 g.kg-1 consumed at 08:00, during training, 12:30 and 13:30, respectively) or low CHO availability (TRAIN LOW; 0 g.kg-1). Participants also completed a non-exercise trial (REST) under identical dietary conditions to TRAIN LOW. Venous blood samples were obtained at 08:30, 10:30, 12:30 and 14:30 for assessment of bone resorption (βCTX), bone formation (PINP) and calcium metabolism (PTH and ACa). External training load did not differ (all P > 0.05) between TRAIN HIGH and TRAIN LOW, as evident for total distance (5.6 ± 0.8; 5.5 ± 0.1 km), average speed (81 ± 9; 85 ± 12 m.min-1) and high-speed running (350 ± 239; 270 ± 89 m). Area under the curve for both βCTX and PINP was significantly greater (P < 0.01 and P = 0.03) in TRAIN LOW versus TRAIN HIGH, whilst no differences in PTH or ACa (P = 0.11 and P = 0.89) were observed between all three trials. CHO restriction before, during and after an acute soccer training session increased bone (re)modelling markers in academy players. Despite acute anabolic effects of bone formation, the long-term consequence of bone resorption may impair skeletal development and increase injury risk during growth and maturation.
17 Heading into the future: Evaluating the risk of repetitive impacts in football (soccer)
Reference: J Sci Med Sport. 2024 Sep;27(9):581-582. doi: 10.1016/j.jsams.2024.08.197.
Author: Ollie Jay
Download link: https://www.jsams.org/action/showPdf?pii=S1440-2440%2824%2900458-4
18 A Novel Method to Measure Dual Task Capacity in Young Football Players: A Preliminary Study
Reference: J Athl Train. 2024 Aug 24. doi: 10.4085/1062-6050-0210.24. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Özgün Uysal, Nevin Atalay Güzel, Volga Bayrakcı Tunay, Tüzün Fırat
Summary: When deciding to return to sport, literature usually uses evaluations based on physical abilities. But, current literature urges us to use more than physical performance evaluations. Classical dual-task testing methods do not simulate in-game loads and cannot sufficiently measure football players‘ dual-task capacity. The purpose of our study was to create a dual-task test that would simulate football players‘ in- game situations and measure their capacity. Twenty-two football players (aged 17.37±0.52 years) who played in a professional club (U19, elite league) were recruited for our study. The task was a novel dual task test with questions containing scenarios from a football game to cognitively load players, while they are performing modified t-test. After the warm-up period, participants attended four tests in random order: juggling (foot) test, speed dribbling test, long passing test, and ’novel dual-task test‘. There was no significant relationship between physical performance parameters and dual task parameters (all ps>0.05). There was a significant increase in the completion time of modified t-test when performed under dual task condition (Z=-7.568, p<0.001). The increase in completion time was found as 2.14±1.29 seconds. This duration difference was calculated as 22.79±14.58%, as dual task cost. Our test provides a new method to measure athletes‘ dual task capacity, which is not related to physical performance and cannot be measured with current tests. This test also showed players with lower dual task ability could not keep up their performance under dual task conditions, such as passing a ball to a team-mate when being pressed by an opponent. Players with good dual task ability could maintain 1 their performance (got affected only up to 10%); players with poor dual task ability could not maintain their performance and got affected by up to 50% (with a mean of 22.79%).
19 Participant Experiences With a Community-Based, „Older Adult“ Walking Football Initiative in Australia: A Qualitative Exploration
Reference: J Aging Phys Act. 2024 Aug 23:1-9. doi: 10.1123/japa.2024-0060. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Lauren Fitzsimons, Sera Dogramaci, Andrew Bennie, Tony Rossi, Nicole Taylor, Ashleigh McInerny, Carmen Young, Rhiannon Lee White
Summary: Despite the growing popularity of walking sports, little is known about who is attracted to them, and what skills, motivations, and experiences encourage ongoing participation. The aim of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon of walking football in Australia. The authors first conducted semistructured interviews with 53 older adults (M = 62.37 years, 30.19% female) participating in walking football in Australia. Next, they conducted thematic analysis to develop themes that represented participant perspectives. Results indicated that walking football led to several physical benefits, but the social and mental benefits seemed to be more closely associated with continued participation. The slower pace of walking football created a valuable option to engage in physical activity among those with injuries or severe health issues, as well as older adults concerned about injuries. The slower pace also shifted the focus of walking football away from fitness and ability, and toward technique and skill development, and this focus, along with the mix in abilities, led to informal coaching and mentoring roles which were highly valued among older participants. Participant views about competition in walking football were diverse, with some expressing a mild concern. Understanding such diverse experiences of walking football helps to better understand how different aspects of the sport influence the perceived benefits and likelihood of continuing for different people. Using these findings to further develop walking sports in Australia could have large impacts on the health and well-being of older people.
20 The relationship between young football players‘ psychological health resources and the psychological quality of their football experiences: A cross-sectional study
Reference: PLoS One. 2024 Aug 23;19(8):e0305978. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305978. eCollection 2024.
Authors: Yngvar Ommundsen, Andreas Ivarsson, Bente Wold, Siv Gjesdal, Bård Erlend Solstad
Download link: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0305978
Summary: Studies taking a person-centred statistical approach when examining young peoples` psychological experiences in sport is scarce. The main aim of the present study was to examine the relationships between young football players‘ psychological health resources and the psychological quality of their football-specific experiences. Data for this cross-sectional study was collected as part of the [BLINDED] arm of the larger Promoting Adolescence Physical Activity (PAPA) multi-centre project [1]. The sample consisted of young [BLINDED] male (n = 814), female (n = 576), grassroots football players between the ages of 10 and 15 years (M = 12.5 years, SD = 1.1 years). We performed a latent profile analysis using Mplus 8.4 using a robust maximum likelihood estimator (MLR). Players with the most resourceful psychological health profile experienced more coach social support (mean = 4.38) than did those with a less well-off resourceful profile (mean = 3.79) and those with the least well-off profile (mean = 3.28). Players with the most resourceful profile also felt a stronger sense of unity among their teammates and they enjoyed football more than those least well off (mean = 4.43 vrs. mean = 3.12 and mean = 4.74 vrs 3.50. respectively). Parallel between-profile differences were also found for the players‘ general health resources including perceived life satisfaction, general health and family affluence as covariates. Findings suggest that variations in young players‘ psychological health profiles and their general health resources play a role in the quality of their football-specific psychological experiences.