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 Bio-banding influences talent experts‘ ratings of psycho-social behaviours during 11 v 11 soccer match-play

Reference: J Sports Sci. 2025 Oct 10:1-14. doi: 10.1080/02640414.2025.2570047. Online ahead of print.
Authors: J Robinson, D Forsdyke, L Arenas, Z Dawson, M King, N Myhill, C Towlson, M Springham, L Walsh, S H Mallinson-Howard, S Barrett, J Salter
Download link: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/epdf/10.1080/02640414.2025.2570047?needAccess=true
Summary: Selection into talent programmes is determined by perceptions of talent experts (i.e. professional academy scouts or coaches). Biological maturity status and/or timing can influence psycho-social behaviours in match-play. This study examined whether bio-banding (i.e. grouping players by biological maturity) influences talent experts‘ ratings of psycho-social behaviours. Using the Hull Soccer Behavioural Scoring Tool (HSBST), 14 talent experts rated 118 trained/developmental, male, adolescent (age: 13.7 ± 0.8 years) soccer players during six 20-minute, chronological age and bio-banded 11v11 matches. Players were bio-banded using percentage of predicted adult height (%PAH) using modified band thresholds relevant to peak height velocity (PHV; < 90%PAH, pre; 90-96%PAH, circa; and > 96%PAH, post-PHV). Dependent sample t-tests between the whole group ratings identified significant differences (p < 0.05) between formats. Decision-making and composure ratings increased in pre-PHV, with X-factor improving for circa-PHV players. Perceptions of resilience, competitiveness and confidence had small to moderate (d = 0.26-0.65) reductions for early maturers. Bio-banding significantly enhanced perceptions of competitiveness, confidence, composure and X-factor in on-time maturers (p = 0.011-0.049). Data indicates bio-banding positively influences perceptions of composure, competitiveness, decision-making and X-factor by talent experts, particularly for less biologically advanced players. Bio-banding may alter talent experts‘ observations of psycho-social behaviours, potentially improving (de)selection accuracy by assessing talent more holistically.

2 High prevalence of poor sleep quality and sleep deficit: A study in children, adolescents, and adult soccer players

Reference: PLoS One. 2025 Oct 10;20(10):e0333774. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0333774. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Lúcio A Cunha, Elisa A Marques, João Brito, Michele Lastella, Pedro Figueiredo
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12513668/pdf/pone.0333774.pdf
Summary: This observational study aimed to provide insight into the sleep behaviors, chronotypes, and sleep needs of athletes by examining children, adolescents, and adult soccer players from different competitive levels. The study included 864 soccer players (n = 747 males) of various age groups [median age: 17 (interquartile range: 14-20)]. The participants completed an online questionnaire that included demographic questions, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ), and a question about their sleep needs. Adult players had a higher prevalence of poor sleep quality, excessive daytime sleepiness, and sleep deficit than children and teenagers (p < 0.001). Lower sleep duration was associated with poorer sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness (rs = -0.59 to -0.17, p < 0.01). Sleep needs were significantly higher than the habitual sleep duration in teenagers (42 min, p < 0.001) and adult players (41 min, p < 0.001). Players that had poor sleep quality (OR = 3.98, 95% CI: 2.78-5.77), excessive daytime sleepiness (OR = 3.72, 95% CI: 2.32-6.1), evening chronotype (OR = 2.54, 95% CI: 1.48-4.40), and later ending time of training (OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.07-1.19) could be at a higher risk of having sleep deficit. Nearly half of the adult players had poor sleep quality. Additionally, one-third of the children, and almost half of the teenagers and adult players, had a sleep deficit. Players with poor sleep quality, an evening chronotype, excessive daytime sleepiness, and a later training time might be at a higher risk of experiencing a sleep deficit.

3 Oral health-related status in elite soccer players in France and in Greece

Reference: Res Sports Med. 2025 Oct 10:1-11. doi: 10.1080/15438627.2025.2567355. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Cantamessa S, Stamos A, Rahiotis C
Summary: This study examines the clinical oral health status of professional football players in Greece and France. Oral health is crucial to athletes‘ well-being, as poor oral hygiene and related conditions, such as carious teeth and gingivitis, can lead to pain, infections, and a decline in athletic performance. This study focused on professional football players, examining key oral health indicators, including carious teeth, gingivitis, and teeth needing extraction. Age groups and gender comparisons were made, especially within the French cohort. The results show statistically significant differences between French and Greek players, particularly in terms of carious teeth and tooth extractions. Gingivitis was prevalent in both populations, with no significant differences. These findings underscore the importance of targeted dental interventions for professional athletes to maintain optimal oral health.

4 Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Pneumatic Compression in Soccer: Does the Number of Recovery Sessions Matter?

Reference: J Sport Rehabil. 2025 Oct 9:1-7. doi: 10.1123/jsr.2024-0357. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Daniel Soares Gonçalves, Luciane Aparecida Moscaleski, Gisele Maria da Silva, Ryland Morgans, Vinicius Felice Ponzio, Alexandre Hideki Okano, Alexandre Moreira
Summary: This study examined whether a greater number of recovery sessions combining transcranial direct current stimulation over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (+F3/-F4 montage configuration) and pneumatic compression would influence elite professional male soccer players‘ physiological and perceptual markers. The intervention occurred during a 3-month period in the competitive season and was applied the day after 17 official matches (match day; MD + 1). Sleep quality, perceived recovery, and creatine kinase concentration were collected during MD + 1 and second day postmatch (MD + 2). The initial sample consisted of 35 players. Data from 14 players who completed 70% of the official match duration and at least 2 experimental recovery sessions were included in the analysis. Players were divided into a high-participation group (>11 experimental recovery sessions) and a low-participation group (<8 experimental recovery sessions). The high-participation group presented a significantly lower mean creatine kinase concentration (239 [129] International Units per liter [IU·L-1]) (low-participation group; 493 [271] IU·L-1) (P = .04; t = 2.23). No differences were observed between groups for perceived recovery (P = .62; t = .50) and sleep quality (P = .35; t = .95). There were no significant adverse effects. The unique findings of this study suggest that a greater number of transcranial direct current stimulation sessions combined with pneumatic compression may enhance the recovery process in elite professional soccer players.

5 Environmental factors associated with talent identification of women’s youth national team soccer players in the United States

Reference: PLoS One. 2025 Oct 9;20(10):e0333065. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0333065. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Matthew Andrew, Samuel Wood, José M Oliva-Lozano, Mirelle Van Rijbroek, Rick Cost, Matthew J Reeves
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12510530/pdf/pone.0333065.pdf
Summary: Female soccer has seen an exponential growth in popularity leading to significant investment in talent identification and development processes. Soccer federations can only identify, develop, and select from a pool of players that are born within the country, thus environmental factors play an important role in the process. Despite the United States (US) being one of the most successful female soccer nations, little is known about environmental factors and their influence upon players‘ talent pathways. This study sought to examine the key environmental factors associated with the identification and development of players for the Women’s Youth National Team (WYNT). Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 23 experienced scouts (11.6 ± 8.8 yrs) that ranged from 32.0 to 61.8 minutes in length (46.1 ± 8.3 mins) to explore their perceptions of the female soccer landscape in the US and how different environmental factors can impact talent identification and development. Four higher order themes emerged: (1) no established playing style; (2) finding players for WYNT; (3) players access to talent opportunities; and (4) limited involvement of the Soccer Federation in youth development. This study is the first to examine these issues in female soccer and US contexts, and further examination of the association between environmental variables and talent identification and development are required to ensure evidence-based decision making that is both female- and country-specific.

6 Effect of In-Season Plyometric Training and Biological Maturation on Development of Slow and Fast Stretch-Shortening Cycle Function in Youth Female Soccer Players

Reference: Eur J Sport Sci. 2025 Nov;25(11):e70053. doi: 10.1002/ejsc.70053.
Authors: Lee D McGarrigal, Christopher I Morse, David T Sims, Georgina K Stebbings
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12507730/pdf/EJSC-25-e70053.pdf
Summary: The aim of this study was to determine slow (> 250 ms) and fast (< 250 ms) stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) function in youth female soccer players at different stages of maturity and observe the effect of supplementing 8-week soccer training with a low-frequency (once-per-week) plyometric training (PT) programme on SSC function in this population. The main findings were that soccer plus PT resulted in significant improvements in slow (countermovement jump height) and fast (reactive strength index, leg stiffness and linear sprinting) SSC function in youth female soccer players, regardless of maturity (p ≤ 0.001), with two exceptions in the pre-PHV group (p ≥ 0.281). In comparison, only two markers of fast SSC function improved following 8-week soccer training without PT: one in the mid-PHV group (p ≤ 0.05) and one marker in the post-PHV group (p ≤ 0.05). This study is the first to demonstrate that soccer training supplemented with low-frequency PT is more effective at improving slow and fast SSC function in youth female soccer players, regardless of maturity status, than soccer training alone. This information is useful for strength and conditioning practitioners working with youth female soccer players to inform future warm-up and/or training programmes with this population that might improve playing performance and mitigate the risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in a population more susceptible to such injuries than boys.

7 The impact of heated garments on substitute performance in soccer match-play

Reference: J Therm Biol. 2025 Oct 4:133:104288. doi: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2025.104288. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Gavin Cowper, Stuart Goodall, Kirsty M Hicks, Louise Burnie, Kai Fox, Andrew Coyles, Marc Briggs
Download link: https://pdf.sciencedirectassets.com/271300/1-s2.0-S0306456525X00061/1-s2.0-S0306456525002451/main.pdf?X-Amz-Security-Token=IQoJb3JpZ2luX2VjEMX%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2FwEaCXVzLWVhc3QtMSJIMEYCIQCeeJ2O1298UhpIlkDhGo4OLuuFJaRCRChkJ7j3f3J5MQIhAJpKFttQ02cCfXSobgt74dQSHNfPwi2zS1USkmx0FbSHKrIFCG0QBRoMMDU5MDAzNTQ2ODY1IgwXnj1BFJYfthT3348qjwWPJnLEFqrvC9aiVFlp7lRo08UIUX%2FvOaUzOsFFVC4HTz%2From27fu1pYPGXnV1hoO2rd7eZ%2B8X%2FGENY5PVZhh3cjSweUDRJ0I39W3Wnw6VPzMAllZouJLrAFq2VMTFtjP1IAsqZ4q%2Bb7nND9mlZkQhLvoUxuVEpfZ9L4h6EHf%2Fu9jZ0AntCJKx5P7xgZqpRgvaQEZbTveX44pbA8P3frX3u7WNvX5I94tHNoQWstqIwmfJOootXwrh63xJbqaet%2BDSLJej44%2B%2BmGrHW1RfwiZ0n7rAkTwt7MiBN9ZoBSX5XSFN2uHT1H5y%2FWmOirWPc2IF9bjMrc6iMwECUPtSurSoLO7Xl1wEBPAlIPWYjSW25oHMID9VKUWDgDhUoguml2FngzCvEOR8vXlC3Q%2FQ9x4rqmoZis8VsfYFhbGu1g5zSlUgfRBoz3j1Ea4NfE6g9msp81YwZYm5aNu9OINSGhcgOF5qOg1yt30DpG%2F9WscchBbnXesMfXo0TzQRvna6TgRlrrVAXqFs3prCw%2B0pW5FoRogpwk3uAgG7sTC6k541OkKfchW2Gy3n30XONbtfQstBmDffC0TD%2FDipxTW7F3y5bLkT%2BwwJyHBcVBifIeRL61y9jtO6RML050%2BWTjnLMahTnrF32GWTHZyvDBW%2BtgPb0UMXEnryi39YYq1uGUDP28YgX9azOUlSR47ArxIzfRUN2zBiTur0NeBVwnwy0YOp15aN4pGKR%2FyA4TCjSOSp9006oRg4X44qOAzk2aQls3J5QLZs%2FSAFrMH62Z1MKvUDHu9O9Fv82Ooqc%2B9vRqZSvUPYtpvvRcf5RFztVWmeHSKew%2B1LrT7Y%2BVGqqRCJWXwvMNXxM9zbs9ZkmFK7aT3kZMIPAvMcGOrAB%2FSVDkQsOKjSa0yjKWwZRjsCKZinlr2hON4pXX3ZaqOrsdPMvy8DXJpRFbsWG8Yqu2qnYAMCtW42JwwFIP5eU%2Fj%2F4NFb50PQ55DLzbrhltbiBmbNusQNfwmHyEwEGkAevKMzm3kbC4SyaXUHK6kkIiZowKXpDTfCOZnvNiJuoJbGPWQrLJetKQc1gVHwkk0jqxfkdsSve%2Fk4n15ORbvInKL0ZffKfsmwF1ehSCm3fObI%3D&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Date=20251015T044944Z&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Expires=300&X-Amz-Credential=ASIAQ3PHCVTYYUOWPBFO%2F20251015%2Fus-east-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Signature=334c25693a22cfa824ea23964fc196d9a24df724775dcebf3d17672a5dea65f3&hash=af61608dacc67b69814de4b5aa1f6dac191b78ea2a6890d4a91ecd808953b1a5&host=68042c943591013ac2b2430a89b270f6af2c76d8dfd086a07176afe7c76c2c61&pii=S0306456525002451&tid=spdf-e4f443d7-dc95-47e0-acd0-f014fee5efe8&sid=1acf0f126862354b689baeb21303cb7608f1gxrqb&type=client&tsoh=d3d3LnNjaWVuY2VkaXJlY3QuY29t&rh=d3d3LnNjaWVuY2VkaXJlY3QuY29t&ua=0a055c5700050d5452&rr=98ecb10c5c231e54&cc=de
Summary: soccer substitutes experience lengthy periods of limited to no activity, before entering match play, which can lead to decrements in muscle temperature and performance. The present study determined whether performance and perceptual responses are affected following the implementation of a passive heat intervention used by substitutes in cold (∼7 °C) conditions. Oon two occasions, 10 trained male soccer players completed a standardised pre-match warm-up, followed by 45 min of being a substitute. After this, players completed a half-time re-warm-up before an additional 15 min of passive rest, replicating 60 min as a substitute. Substitutes wore a standardised tracksuit (CON) or heated trousers (HEAT), over typical soccer attire. Core temperature and perceptual data were recorded every 15 min. Following the 60 min, players entered an 11 vs. 11 match for the final 30 min which included measurement of GPS variables. Upon match entry, players felt warmer (P < 0.01) and more comfortable (P < 0.01) in HEAT compared to CON, without differences in core temperature (P = 0.223). Furthermore, participants felt less fatigued (P < 0.05) and more motivated (P < 0.01). Throughout the match, distance covered at >21 km/h (325 ± 187 vs. 210 ± 113 m/h; P < 0.05) and the number of Band 3 accelerations (>3 m/s; 9.67 ± 5.1 vs. 6.11 ± 3.8; P < 0.05) increased in HEAT compared to CON. Implementing a passive heating intervention before match entry, positively impacts physical performance and perceptual responses for soccer substitutes in cold conditions.

8 Assessment of the neuromuscular characteristics of the flexo-extension muscles of knee by tensiomyography in elite soccer players: a systematic review

Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2025 Sep 22:7:1610094. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2025.1610094. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Jesús Lorigados Pérez, Álvaro Bustamante-Sánchez
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12497841/pdf/fspor-07-1610094.pdf
Summary: The objective was to summarize the usefulness of tensiomyography (TMG) as a monitoring tool to evaluate the neuromuscular characteristics of the knee flexor and extensor muscles in elite male soccer players. A search of Pubmed, Web of Science (WOS), SPORTdiscus and Scopus databases was performed using the PRISMA methodology. The results obtained suggest that TMG can provide information not only on individual responses to training, but also on neuromuscular and functional fatigue and lateral asymmetries. The monitoring of the evolution of the neuromuscular state during the season in soccer players, can help coaches and medical staff to identify the initial characteristics that are relevant for the planning and programming of training, and that these changes can be monitored through the study of the modification of mechanical muscle characteristics assessed by tensiomyography. The TMG is a useful tool for evaluating the neuromuscular characteristics of the knee flexor and extensor muscles in elite male footballers.

9 Changes in peripheral blood and cognitive performance after nonconcussive head impacts in elite female soccer players

Reference: Commun Med (Lond). 2025 Oct 7;5(1):417. doi: 10.1038/s43856-025-01127-8.
Authors: Martin Cente, Janka Perackova, Pavol Peracek, Marek Majdan, Igor Toth, Martin Mikulic, Jozef Hanes, Marian Spajdel, Patrik Sivco, Michaela Skrabanova, Rostislav Skrabana, Igor Jurisica, Peter Filipcik
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12504563/pdf/43856_2025_Article_1127.pdf
Summary: Exposure to repetitive head impacts (RHI) has been shown to be associated with cognitive impairment and markers of neurodegeneration in professional male soccer players. However, data on the effects of RHI in female players are very limited. In this exploratory study, we investigated changes in blood biomarkers along with the cognitive status of elite female soccer players and compared the effect of RHI with outcomes in male players. In a cohort study, elite female soccer players (age 16-41 years) performed training without heading the ball (n = 36) and training including heading (n = 30). Athletes were evaluated for the parameters of physical activity (heart rate) and neuropsychological testing (focused attention and cognitive flexibility) before and 1 h after each training. The levels of plasma tau, pTau181, pTau217 and microRNAs were determined at four timepoints: before training, 1 h, 24 h, and 48 h after each training session. Parameters in females were compared with control male players (n = 32). The levels of tau, pTau181 and pTau217 are significantly increased in the plasma of female soccer players 1 hour after physical exercise (tau, 1.4-fold; pTau181, 1.3-fold; pTau217, 1.2-fold) and repetitive head impacts (tau, 1.2-fold; pTau181, 1.3-fold; pTau217, 1.3-fold) compared to pre-training levels. The ratio of pTau181 to tau fold change is significantly higher 1 hour after heading and remains elevated specifically in the heading group even after 48 h. The analysis of deregulated microRNAs in plasma reveals enrichment of neuroprotective pathways after heading training. Female soccer players show worse cognitive functions after heading compared to exercise and also compared to male soccer players. RHIs may lead to acute disbalance of tau and phosphorylated tau in plasma, and are associated with short-term decline in cognitive performance and neuroprotective pathways in elite female soccer players. The sexual dimorphism in response to RHI may reflect biological risk factors potentially relevant to the different degree of susceptibility to neurological disorders in females and males in later life.

10 Heading in Soccer Players and Neurologic Outcomes

Reference: J Child Neurol. 2025 Oct 6:8830738251378592. doi: 10.1177/08830738251378592. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Rachael S Mathew, Osvaldo Pangrazio, Francisco Forriol, Christopher Howard, Gustavo Rivas Martinez, Mildred Franco, Alcy R Torres
Summary: Soccer is the most popular sport worldwide, with participation across all levels of play. Heading the ball raises concerns about subconcussive impacts and their cumulative effects, which remain uncertain. This review aims to synthesize current literature on heading across different levels of play. A narrative review was conducted using the PubMed database to search for articles related to soccer heading and its neurologic outcomes. Articles were categorized by level of play: youth, adolescent, college, adult amateur, and professional. Twenty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria. There was lack of consensus on the neurologic effects of heading across any age group, and only 3 studies followed players through a season. The use of various tools among these studies prevented meaningful comparisons. Overall, the need for longitudinal studies across different levels of play with standardized evaluation tools is crucial for assessing the neurologic outcomes of soccer players.

11 Investigating the isolated effects of a soccer-specific mental fatigue manipulation on different task types

Reference: Front Psychol. 2025 Sep 18:16:1655221. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1655221. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Helena Weiler, Fabienne Ennigkeit, Stefan Altmann, Lena Steindorf, Jan Spielmann, Chris Englert
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12489948/pdf/fpsyg-16-1655221.pdf
Summary: Mental fatigue negatively impacts athletic performance, but commonly employed tasks like the Stroop task often lack ecological validity. This study aimed to validate a modified, soccer-specific Footbonaut task as a mental fatigue manipulation and examine its effects on following tasks representing task-specific, near-, and far-transfer domains. A randomized, counterbalanced within-subject design was implemented with n = 24 soccer players. Participants completed a Footbonaut task (task-specific), the LSPT (near-transfer), and the Stroop task (far-transfer) before and after mental fatigue manipulation via the Footbonaut. Inconsistencies emerged between interaction effects and post-hoc tests, showing no clear negative effect of the manipulation on accuracy or response times. The employed mental fatigue manipulation did not differentially affect the three tasks, indicating a lack of transfer effects. Although mental fatigue was not successfully induced by the sport-specific Footbonaut task, the findings emphasize the need for ecologically valid, innovative methods to better understand mental fatigue in sports.

12 Cleats May Be a Risk Factor for ACL Tears in Female Lacrosse and Soccer Players

Reference: Orthop J Sports Med. 2025 Oct 3;13(10):23259671251365603. doi: 10.1177/23259671251365603. eCollection 2025 Oct.
Authors: Zoe Cass, Spencer Williams, Caitlin Slaminko, Karina Sethi, Alexa Donahue, Paul M Sethi
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12495173/pdf/10.1177_23259671251365603.pdf
Summary: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are common in female athletes, with most injuries caused by noncontact mechanisms. Beyond the sex factor, it is important to identify modifiable risk factors for an ACL tear, such as the type of shoe and playing surface. The purpose was to evaluate the association between shoe type and the risk of ACL injury. A retrospective review of 256 female athletes was conducted: 128 female soccer and lacrosse athletes who had torn their ACLs and 128 age- and sport-matched athletes who had never torn their ACL. Sports, level of competition, mechanism of injury, type of shoe, type of stud in the shoe, and playing surface were identified. In this study, 75% of participants who tore their ACLs were wearing cleats. In contrast, only 55.5% of the age-matched group with normal ACLs wore cleats. A significant association was found between ACL tear and the type of shoe they were wearing (P < .05). In athletes who tore their ACL, 46.4% of their cleats had conical studs, 14.4% had blades, and 15.2% had a mix of the 2, compared with those who have never torn their ACL, with 30.5% having conical studs, 18.8% blades, and 6.3% mixed. The odds of sustaining an ACL tear while wearing conical studs were 2.02 times higher than wearing blades (95% CI, 0.97-4.20) and 2.87 times higher than wearing turf shoes (95% CI, 1.58-5.23). Female athletes who wore cleats were more likely to tear their ACL when compared with sport- and age-matched athletes who wore turf shoes. Wearing turf shoes as opposed to cleats appears to be associated with a reduced risk of ACL tears in high-level female athletes. Cleats with long, conical studs, especially around the perimeter of the cleat, were associated with increased odds for ACL tear and were more common in the 128 athletes in this study who tore their ACLs. Based on this information, we recommend further exploration for a shoe that prevents shoe wear from being an additional risk factor for ACL injuries in female athletes.

13 Running demands during top-up conditioning sessions compared to competitive matches in elite Portuguese soccer players

Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Jun 24;42(4):287-297. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2025.151650. eCollection 2025 Oct.
Authors: João Ribeiro, Petrus Gantois, Fabiano de Souza Fonseca, Luis Suarez-Arrones, João Viana, Fábio Yuzo Nakamura
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12490323/pdf/JBS-42-4-56157.pdf
Summary: Soccer players who are non-starters typically experience reduced match loads, which can hinder their physical fitness and match readiness over time. This study aimed to investigate the running demands accumulated during top-up sessions in comparison to soccer matches. Twenty-six outfield soccer players from an elite Portuguese soccer team participated in this study. The following running variables were recorded: total distance (TD), running (14.4 to 19.7 km · h-1), high-speed running (HSR: 19.8 to 25.1 km · h-1), sprinting (≥ 25.2 km · h-1) distances, number of sprints (counts), number of accelerations (ACC; 2-3 m · s-2 and > 3 m · s-2), decelerations (DEC; 2-3 m · s-2 and > 3 m · s-2), and player load. A linear mixed-effects model was used to examine differences between top-up sessions and matches. Overall, non-starters accumulated lower running load during top-up sessions than matches for most of the variables analyzed, but in particular TD (p < 0.001; ES range 2.46 to 3.74), running (p < 0.001; ES range 2.93 to 3.90), HSR (p < 0.001; ES range 2.21 to 3.47), sprints events (p < 0.001; ES range 1.16 to 2.76), ACC > 3 m · s-2 (p < 0.005; ES range 0.98 to 1.37), DEC > 3 m · s-2 (p < 0.001; ES range 1.91 to 2.66), and player load (p < 0.001; ES range 2.34 to 3.23). Therefore, non-starters accumulated less than half of the total match distance for most of the running metrics during top-up sessions. These findings suggest that compensatory training should be designed to more closely replicate match demands, with particular attention to high-intensity demands, such as HSR and sprints.

14 Comparative effects of 9-month in-season resistance training with a novel periodization approach (integral periodization) vs. a traditional approach on high-intensity actions and non-contact injuries in young, trained soccer players

Referemce: Biol Sport. 2025 Jun 6;42(4):261-274. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2025.151649. eCollection 2025 Oct.
Authors: Jose Jimenez-Iglesias, Oliver Gonzalo-Skok, Mario Landi-Fernández, Alejandro Perez-Bey, Eduardo de la Pascua-Roca, Pedro Gómez Piqueras, Miguel Angel Campos-Vazquez, Jose Castro-Piñero
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12492344/pdf/JBS-42-4-56156.pdf
Summary: The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of a novel periodization model – integral periodization (IP) – that considers the load balance between game-specific demands and resistance training sessions and to compare it with the effect a traditional periodization model (TP) of resistance training (RT) on fitness through lower-body muscular strength, acceleration and speed, change of direction ability, and cardiorespiratory fitness performance, in addition to non-contact injury incidence in young, trained soccer players during a full season. Forty-five (n = 21 vs n = 24) trained soccer players (15.2 ± 0.1 years) were randomly divided into a TP training group (TPG) and an IP training group (IPG). High-intensity actions (HIAs) were evaluated through countermovement jump (CMJ), squat and hip-thrust progressive loading tests, a 10-m and 30-m sprint test, a V-cut test, and a 30-15 intermittent fitness test, and non-contact injuries were recorded. In RT sessions, TPG used exercises without variability that were repeated systematically, while IPG used variable exercises for compensating the load in reference to what was experienced on the pitch. The results showed significant improvements in all tests (ES: 0.42-4.43, all p < 0.05), except the 30-15 ITF (ES: 0.21-0.27, p = 0.114-0.332), in both groups. However, IPG showed significantly better results than TPG in 10-m (p < 0.001), 30-m sprint (p < 0.001), V-cut (p < 0.012), and non-contact injuries incidence (p < 0.028). In summary, IPG showed greater HIA improvements compared to TP and reduced non-contact injury incidence in young, trained soccer players.

15 Impact of post-match fatigue on peak force in elite youth soccer players: Analysis of 48 to 72 hours post-match using the isometric mid-thigh pull exercise

Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Apr 28;42(4):145-152. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2025.150044. eCollection 2025 Oct.
Authors: Ricardo Pimenta, Lúcio Cunha, Fábio Yuzo Nakamura
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12490303/pdf/JBS-42-4-56023.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the time-course of the recovery of force-generating capacity in young adult soccer players post-match. Seventy-three Under-19 and Under-23 soccer players were assessed using the isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) test. Measurements were taken during a baseline session (under non-fatigued conditions) and at 48 h and 72 h post-match. External and internal load metrics were recorded on match day and training days using a Global Positioning System and the session session-rating of perceived exertion, respectively. For each game, players‘ observations were divided into experimental and control conditions, reflecting playing more than 60 minutes and 0 minutes of match participation, respectively. Within-subject correlations between selected external match load metrics and internal load, and changes in IMTP peak force (PF), were analyzed for players in the experimental condition. The results demonstrated that, in the experimental condition, the IMTP PF was impaired by 8.1% at 48 h post-match (p < 0.001, d = 0.72) and 6.2% at 72 h post-match (p < 0.001, d = 0.68), with no significant differences between 48 h and 72 h post-match (p > 0.05). However, no correlations were observed between changes in IMTP PF at 48 h and 72 h post-match and either external or internal load. Moreover, an 8.2% reduction in IMTP peak force from baseline to 72 h post-match (1603N vs 1471N, p = 0.01, d = 0.46) was observed in the control condition, which can be attributed to the load on MD+2. This finding suggests that the IMTP is a sensitive test for detecting fluctuations in the recovery of force-generating capacity, further highlighting that soccer players do not achieve full recovery in this test within the specified time frame.

16 Contextualized acceleration and deceleration profiles of elite soccer players during English Premier League match-play. The effect of possession, positional demands and opponent ranking

Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Apr 14;42(4):67-75. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2025.148540. eCollection 2025 Oct.
Authors: Ryland Morgans, Mauro Mandorino, Ben Ryan, Piotr Zmijewski, Alexandre Moreira, Rafael Oliveira
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12490298/pdf/JBS-42-4-55769.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to compare accelerations (ACC) and decelerations (DEC) when in- (IP) and outof-possession (OP) during official English Premier League (EPL) match-play over three consecutive seasons considering playing position, match location and opponent ranking. Match data from 31 male professional soccer players was obtained via an optical tracking system. Playing position significantly influenced ACCIP, DECIP, and DECOP. Ranking difference and match location were significant predictors for DECIP, ACCOP, and DECOP. An increase in ranking difference was associated with higher DECIP. Conversely, in the out-of-possession phase (ACCOP and DECOP), a decrease in these parameters with increasing ranking difference was observed. Regarding match location, positive β coefficients suggested that DECIP, ACCOP, and DECOP values were significantly higher during away matches compared to home matches. A significant interaction (playing position × ranking difference) was reported for DECOP (β = 0.035, p = 0.013). Interestingly, DECOP actions decreased with increasing ranking difference across all playing positions except for wingers. In conclusion, these findings highlight that distinct contextual factors influence ACC and DEC performance during in- and out-of-possession phases of EPL match-play.

17 The effect of small-sided games and HIIT formats and competitive level on enjoyment and exercise intensity in young adult male soccer players

Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 May 8;42(4):153-162. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2025.150046. eCollection 2025 Oct.
Authors: Weiqiang Xu, Robert Trybulski, Rui Miguel Silva, Yichen Zhao, Henrique de Oliveira Castro, Gustavo De Conti Teixeira Costa, Filipe Manuel Clemente
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12490308/pdf/JBS-42-4-56025.pdf
Summary: This study aims to analyze the differences in Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES) scores and exercise intensity across small-sided games (SSGs) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) formats among soccer players from Tier 2 and Tier 3 competitive levels. Utilizing a cross-sectional design, 77 male players (20.64 ± 1.56 years) participated in four training sessions under controlled conditions. Enjoyment was assessed with PACES, while exercise intensity was monitored through heart rate and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). The training formats included 1 v 1 and 5 v 5 SSGs and long and short HIIT formats. Players were categorized as Amateur (Tier 2) or Competitor (Tier 3) based on training volume and performance level. The training formats included 1 v 1 and 5 v 5 SSGs and long and short HIIT formats. The present study revealed significant differences in PACES scores across the different training formats (p < 0.001), with the 5 v 5 format yielding the highest scores and long HIIT the lowest. A significant interaction between training format and competitive level was observed (p = 0.011). Tier 2 players reported higher PACES scores in the 5 v 5, 1 v 1, and Short HIIT formats compared to Tier 3 players. SSGs and HIIT formats significantly influence enjoyment, with smaller-sided formats (1 v 1) and short HIIT showing the highest enjoyment levels. Tier 2 players reported higher enjoyment and physical efforts than Tier 3 players, in 5 v 5, 1 v 1, and short HIIT formats. These findings show the importance of programming training sessions according to the competitive level of athletes to maximize enjoyment and manage effort in soccer training programs.

18 Return to performance: machine learning insights into how absence time following muscle injuries affects match running performance in LaLiga soccer players

Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Jun 24;42(4):275-286. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2025.151651. eCollection 2025 Oct.
Authors: Javier Pecci, Horacio Sánchez-Trigo, David Mancha-Triguero, Borja Sañudo, Gonzalo Reverte-Pagola, Juan José Del Ojo-López, Roberto López Del Campo, Ricardo Resta, Adrián Feria-Madueño
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12490316/pdf/JBS-42-4-56158.pdf
Summary: The aim was to determine how absence time after muscle injuries affects external load metrics in elite soccer players and identify which performance variables are most impacted by the injury. A total of 110 lower limb muscle injuries from LaLiga players were analysed. Following an analysis of pre- and post-injury data to identify which outcomes were affected by muscle injury, machine learning algorithms were employed to examine relationships between absence duration and performance metrics. Maximal speed, maximal acceleration, maximal deceleration, composite index (i.e., overall player performance) and sprint count during matches were the most affected variables after return to play. The multiple linear regression (MLR) model and random forest regression (RFR) presented an R2 of 0.348 and 0.442. Maximal speed was the variable most strongly associated with absence time in both models (coefficient in MLR = 7.94; mean absolute SHAP value in RFR model = 4.99), with longer recovery periods correlating with reduced match performance in this metric. Maximal acceleration and deceleration also showed declines with increased absence time. In contrast, sprint count exhibited no significant relationship with absence time. Maximal speed, acceleration and deceleration capacity, as well as sprint count and overall performance, are affected after muscle injuries. However, prolonged recovery following muscle injuries especially reduces maximum speed and acceleration/deceleration capacity in elite players during matches, while sprinting actions remain unaffected by absence time.

19 Do players in Spanish professional soccer leagues maintain match running performance until the end of the match? A 5-minute interval analysis by match participation

Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Aug 4;42(4):345-352. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2025.151645. eCollection 2025 Oct.
Authors: Tomás García-Calvo, David Lobo-Triviño, José C Ponce-Bordón, Borja Sanabria-Pino, Roberto López Del Campo, Ricardo Resta, Paweł Chmura
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12490322/pdf/JBS-42-4-56154.pdf
Summary: The present study aimed to analyse the match running performance differences across 5-minute time intervals considering the players‘ participation in matches. A total of 381,194 individual match observations from professional soccer players competing in the First (n = 171,957) and Second (n = 209,237) Spanish soccer leagues over the 2022/23 season were collected. Soccer players were classified according to their participation in matches. Total distance (TD), very high-speed running (VHSR, 21-24 km × h-1), and sprinting speed running distance (Sprint, > 24 km × h-1) were analysed using a computerized tracking system (TRACAB, Chyronhego, New York, NY). Match data were divided into pre-defined 5-minute intervals. Linear mixed models were performed to analyse match running performance over the 5-minute intervals while controlling the influence of match participation. The main results showed a decrease in match running performance as the match time progressed, from the 55th-60th minute onward (p < .001), although match participation also had a significant influence. Specifically, substitute players covered significantly greater VHSR (p < .001) and Sprint distances (p < .001) than the rest of the players during their time of participation. These findings provide knowledge about the evolution of match running performance over match time. Finally, analysis of 5-minute intervals may help coaches understand the periods of matches where player substitutions are most effective.

20 Effects of plyometric training on physical performance and mental well-being in young soccer players

Reference: J Sports Sci. 2025 Oct 6:1-15. doi: 10.1080/02640414.2025.2567786. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Achraf Hammami, Raouf Hammami, Abdelkader Mahmoudi, Haithem Rebai, Angel Saez-Berlanga, Javier Gene-Morales, Alvaro Juesas, Juan C Colado
Summary: Plyometric training (PT) improves performance in young soccer players, but its psychological effects remain underexplored. This is especially relevant for young elite players facing early selection pressures. The aim was to evaluate the effects of unilateral and bilateral PT on performance and mental well-being in elite young soccer players according to their maturation level. Sixty-seven tier-3 male athletes (12.03±2.34 years; pre- and post-peak heigh velocity groups) were randomised into unilateral PT (n= 23), bilateral PT (n= 23), or active control (n= 21), with all groups maintaining standard soccer training. PT was delivered twice weekly over 8 weeks. Physical outcomes included 20-m sprint, Y-Balance Test, 15-m change-of-direction with ball. Psychological outcomes were somatic and cognitive anxiety and self-confidence measured using the CSAI-2 outside of a competitive context. Non-parametric ANCOVA (Quade) adjusted for maturity and anthropometry showed that unilateral PT induced the greatest improvements in sprint (ηp2 = 0.42), balance (ηp2= 0.27), and CoD (ηp2= 0.35), particularly in post-PHV players. Both PT groups reduced cognitive (ηp2 = 0.34) and somatic anxiety (ηp2= 0.41), with unilateral PT post-PHV showing the largest effects. Self-confidence increased (ηp2= 0.22), correlating with balance and sprint improvements. These findings support the use of maturity-specific PT to enhance both performance and mental status in young soccer.

21 Personality traits and perfectionism in female and male soccer players with or without primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a cross-sectional study

Reference: Phys Ther Sport. 2025 Sep 29:76:120-126. doi: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2025.09.015. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Anne Fältström, Martin Hägglund, Andreas Ivarsson, Joanna Kvist
Download link: https://pdf.sciencedirectassets.com/272404/1-s2.0-S1466853X25X00067/1-s2.0-S1466853X25001403/main.pdf?X-Amz-Security-Token=IQoJb3JpZ2luX2VjEMX%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2FwEaCXVzLWVhc3QtMSJHMEUCIDuD0iYs3Ut3K6cOC3DwWAfXX%2BTWNla21NzsBGDYfOHAAiEA8miIqnro4I%2BuIDOPSOCzc7wbrrXQg846v3NXLgxgedcqswUIbRAFGgwwNTkwMDM1NDY4NjUiDD64bxsAJSiyec3c3iqQBY1QX99JoYgkGLtlYH41bUa1v6Kec7xrR%2F8RN5h2gbxArtsNHbhsNz8oEe4MGPYKLUxQtwesOBxS8AcfUDkm%2F2AjhCLVRpSFCc4y9p%2FztrRp14xTGBGWExyjZdPccc14U7pMzsm6%2BQjc2D%2FesbgHANHM1dmxQYf0%2Bytr%2FL%2BDif2uraOyrxf%2FQo5JLnADL76boyJF9jHTJnl7JLsQvXxZc5qTR95RvIC3doBvlXV%2BPt70AoIlifA8yK99GQprrBKPstQPYCdWjiOWzIZjRXyBDrfdshK4zpKRInkTtpIcd%2FmA4roaC28gnQdITO2RquAPM4K4vMnqjnxQcx15psJ5pqR2g4FHUD4BwXdt729U2QK1ecNqtImoEZZyZ42lMazV%2BInRjcDrH1lSysiaAjzlzxIZe%2BHyXwhy479VfT2voybd%2FFAwLcE0VpVk9lGAF80%2F8%2FfgCKMbFNPHIRNZW5iH%2B2HV6qsRvKlWh00Mu5GVfRYnrOhUpJH%2BkIg0G2K1irAQ4mcE3fwtCj7PvC8YZm0EBO1MX6bqbHPCSmzAl5xgsfi%2FgSaxE7kRd3xUKiwfp0W5xS68IxFhDMMP4Ml3geLqaYoaubhyCL6Nna52TnA4soRXt7554fBONK1x%2FvYgafqvP%2FQrTLCsU7d2DAy9kO9ZUOYx55aScqxy9gRqbqPI8HkeVVVCb66XWRVZQXVeZT8CVSayh1wJAb6%2FsNnjua1%2F%2Fv3YphxK7mkvCoBOwBbbzi10uy%2B6%2F2tV%2FZNTTXWUuXSqPP%2FkpWy8swmy8HwXPmmKxKa0%2FELsJQos2V%2FBPnHa7TRLxYMY4zMnihIsp9wSk5RxpG8doVJF3mdYpE1qYeZt9yc%2FaDO3RS8vBvC4Wzmq%2BEIBMInBvMcGOrEBcecAQ5LaXdwNWbJYrwAAnTT7j2eiqim6tTTExKltTvEhqFjsuZ67wdvozaBD6mc3E53szPyb8jpXWaiNiVxwQ80ry7PcK06N9ciZ7%2FIIfi0NxC0lnamHoSuDe1xRuZy4RyIIHymNeKfm%2BA3VCQG%2Fr3lbcPE3dZQ%2BlO%2Fm9w6DLtu0y7YLs9Ld3gCVl5wBCzTxsYhA98%2Bk1%2F3kBPtAT1Lq3MYCWRZWIwUJoiCG4qEozid3&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Date=20251015T050732Z&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Expires=300&X-Amz-Credential=ASIAQ3PHCVTYS6D7UXE4%2F20251015%2Fus-east-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Signature=46082fc8588cf49de5147301102e9f8b656cead6f412bd88ba6426ac15a2b690&hash=d40f294c99b39c5d46f869ce7c9d14b0df347e95da4f636ec69d2b5c76bba634&host=68042c943591013ac2b2430a89b270f6af2c76d8dfd086a07176afe7c76c2c61&pii=S1466853X25001403&tid=spdf-f51d566e-7263-441b-8f61-8bed7268013d&sid=1acf0f126862354b689baeb21303cb7608f1gxrqb&type=client&tsoh=d3d3LnNjaWVuY2VkaXJlY3QuY29t&rh=d3d3LnNjaWVuY2VkaXJlY3QuY29t&ua=0a055c5700050c0750&rr=98eccb212a43d3ac&cc=de
Summary: The aim was o investigate differences in personality traits in female and male soccer players with or without primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and between female and male players with ACLR. 188 female and 58 male players two years after ACLR and 119 female and 107 male knee-healthy players participated. The Swedish universities Scales of Personality and the Sport Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale questionnaires was used as outcome measures. Females with ACLR did not differ from females without ACLR in any personality trait. Males with ACLR scored slightly higher than males without ACLR for stress susceptibility (50.9 ± 9.0 vs 47.8 ± 8.0) and lack of assertiveness (50.3 ± 8.9 vs 46.6 ± 9.4), and slightly lower in adventure seeking (51.9 ± 8.3 vs 55.1 ± 8.0), personal standards (3.3 ± 0.9 vs 3.7 ± 0.7), concern over mistakes (2.6 ± 0.9 vs 2.9 ± 0.8), and perceived coach pressure (2.0 ± 0.9 vs 2.4 ± 0.9) (p < 0.05, small‒medium effect sizes). Females with ACLR scored higher than males with ACLR for psychic anxiety and social desirability and lower for detachment, physical trait aggression and perceived parental and coach pressure (p < 0.05, small‒medium effect sizes). Personality traits do not differ between females and small differences in males with or without ACLR. Sex differences exist in personality in soccer players, but the clinical importance is unclear.

22 FIFA neuromuscular training programs on ankle injuries in football players: A meta-analysis with emphasis on evidence gaps

Reference: Foot Ankle Surg. 2025 Oct 8:S1268-7731(25)00226-7. doi: 10.1016/j.fas.2025.10.005. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Jinfa Gu, Shiwei Chen, Jingyuan Sun, Ruohan Zhang
Summary: Football causes over 4 million injuries each year, making injury prevention a priority. To mitigate the risks, FIFA neuromuscular programs (FIFA 11 +, FIFA 11 + Kids, and FIFA 11) are implemented to reduce injury risk. Nevertheless, their efficacy varies across populations and implementation protocols. Databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE (2006-2025) were searched for randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies comparing FIFA programs to standard warm-ups. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool. Pooled relative risk (RR) with 95 % CIs were calculated using random-effects models. Prespecified subgroups were analyzed according to program version, sex, sample size, and training parameters (frequency/duration). Nine RCTs (n = 11,687) found that FIFA programs, in general, reduced ankle injury risk by 38 % (RR=0.62, 95 % CI: 0.50-0.78; P < 0.001). Version-specific analyses revealed significant effects for FIFA 11 + (RR=0.57) and FIFA 11 + Kids (RR=0.56), but no effect for FIFA 11 (RR=0.94). Sex-specific analysis showed a 44 % reduction in males (RR=0.56) but no significant effect in females (RR=0.87). Exploratory subgroup analysis revealed small-study effects: smaller trials (n < 500) demonstrated greater efficacy (RR=0.33) than larger trials (n ≥ 1000; RR=0.73). Neither training frequency (1-2 vs. >2 sessions/week; P = 0.91) nor intervention duration (20-26 vs. ≥27 weeks; P = 0.09) modified efficacy. The quality of evidence was rated as moderate according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). FIFA programs significantly reduce ankle injury risk in football players. However, efficacy differences primarily reflect program version (FIFA 11 ineffective) rather than biological sex, with insufficient female-specific data and diminished effects in larger trials. Future large-scale trials should confirm effectiveness in female and youth athletes, addressing limitations from small-trial bias.

23 Heading to guidance: understanding in-training heading demands for elite men’s and women’s football

Reference: Br J Sports Med. 2025 Oct 9:bjsports-2024-109525. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2024-109525. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Dominic Charles Townsend, Chris Jones, Sameer Patel, Matthew Green, Paddy Riley, Michael Brownlow, Mark Gillett, Antonio Belli
Summary: The aim was to investigate the heading demands of elite footballers during training sessions using instrumented mouthguards (iMGs). Methods followed the Consensus Head Acceleration Measure Practices guidelines. This prospective observational cohort study involved 52 elite male players from four clubs in the first and third tiers of English football, and 20 elite female football players from two clubs in the first tier. Players wore iMGs during outfield training sessions to collect data. A linear mixed model was used to identify differences in heading metrics based on sex, age and header situations, analysing 13 distinct metrics related to heading frequency and intensity. The study recorded 1496 heading impacts across 63 training sessions. The mean peak (SD) heading intensity was 18.1 (8.5) g and 1068 (776) rad/s2, with a mean impact duration of 10.4 (8.9) ms. Male players had a mean peak linear acceleration (PLA) of 17.8 (8.2) g and a mean peak rotational acceleration (PRA) of 1025 (741) rad/s2. Females had a PLA of 20.1 (9.7) g and a PRA of 1374 (934) rad/s2. Significant sex differences were found for rotational acceleration, with female players showing higher values (p=0.015, 𝑛𝑝2=0.004), but not for linear acceleration (p=0.152, 𝑛𝑝2=0.001). Significant differences in PLA and PRA were also observed between different header situations, with the lowest values recorded for headers from throws. This understanding of heading demands has important implications for player health and safety. The information can be used to inform training practices and quantification of heading loads.