European Journal of Sport Sciences

Differences in Soccer Matches' Movement Patterns between Two Young Age Groups Players: Under-17 and Under-19

Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 +0200

One of the most important issues in soccer training is the analysis and optimization of the players’ physiological characteristics. This study examines movement characteristics of soccer players in an under-17 (U17, n=20) and under-19 (U19, n=23) age groups. Participants played for over 80 minutes in 13 league matches. Using GPS devices, we measured movement patterns, including total distance (TD), with speeds being classified into five categories: (1) walking, 0–3.6 km/h; (2) jogging, 3.6–10.8 km/h; (3) moderate running, 10.8–18.0 km/h; (4) fast running, 18.0–25.0 km/h; and (5) sprinting, >25.0 km/h. High-speed running (HSR) included speed categories 4 and 5. Maximum sprint speed (Max Speed) and the number of accelerations (ACC) and decelerations (DEC) were also recorded. Statistical analysis included independent T-test samples and ANOVA and showed higher measurements in the distance covered in four of the five categories (1, 2, 4, and 5), as well as increased TD, HSR and Max Speed, and higher ACC and DEC among the U19 players compared to the U17 players. These findings emphasize the need for age-specific fitness characteristics training strategies in young soccer players particularly during the transition of age group categories.

Roni Gottlieb, Almog Nemschitz, Asaf Shalom, Julio Calleja-Gonzalez, Alon Eliakim, Yoav Meckel

A Pilot Study Comparing Maximum Joint Linear Velocity and Sequencing Patterning between an Overhead, Single Handed Fly Distance Cast and a Standing Javelin Throw

John Waters, Sam Shi Xuan Wu, Oren Tirosh — Fri, 09 May 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Introduction: The aims of this study were firstly to identify the maximum, linear, horizontal velocity of the ipsilateral hip, shoulder, elbow and wrist, and the joint sequencing pattern used by casters and throwers. Secondly, measure the maximum angular velocity of the ipsilateral elbow and the angle of the shoulder axis to the casting or throwing direction at the time the ipsilateral elbow attained maximum angular velocity.

Method: Nine casters having a mean age of 65.89 ± 4.24 and four javelin throwers with a mean age of 66.0 ± 14.85 years participated in this pilot study. Motion sensors were affixed to each joint and data was collected using 3D Qualisys movement system.

Results: Javelin throwers (1) generated greater ipsilateral hip, shoulder, elbow and wrist maximum, horizontal, linear velocity than casters, (2) exhibited greater compliance to a proximal to distal movement patterning than casters, and (3) generated greater ipsilateral maximum, elbow angular velocity and rotated their shoulder axis more to the direction of the throw than casters.

Conclusion: This study is the first to compare the movement patterning used by casters and throwers and identifies opportunity for casters to improve casting performance by adopting the movement patterning used by javelin throwers.

John Waters, Sam Shi Xuan Wu, Oren Tirosh

The Impact of Injury Severity on Sleep Quality in Soccer Players

Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Soccer players are particularly vulnerable to musculoskeletal injuries, which not only impact their performance but also significantly affect sleep quality. Pain, inflammation, and psychological stress from injuries frequently lead to sleep disturbances, disrupting essential recovery processes. Moreover, poor sleep can increase the risk of reinjury, creating a cycle that hampers long-term athletic performance. This review synthesizes existing literature on the complex relationship between injury severity and sleep quality in soccer players. It explores how pain and inflammation contribute to sleep disturbances, how disrupted sleep alters recovery mechanisms, and how psychological stress exacerbates both injury outcomes and sleep disruptions. Additionally, it examines the long-term effects of poor sleep on recovery rates and reinjury risk, emphasizing its impact on career longevity. To address these challenges, this review highlights practical strategies for optimizing sleep, including effective pain management, improved sleep hygiene, relaxation techniques, and targeted nutritional interventions. The integration of sleep monitoring tools and individualized approaches can help coaches, trainers, and medical professionals prioritize sleep as a fundamental component of injury recovery. By acknowledging sleep as a key factor in both injury prevention and rehabilitation, this review underscores the need for a holistic approach to athlete care. Enhancing sleep quality can significantly improve recovery outcomes, reduce reinjury risks, and ultimately support sustained performance and well-being in soccer players.

Vasiliki J. Malliou, George Pafis, Ioannis Ispirlides, Katerina Daskalaki, Christos Katsikas