Impact of Four-Match Congestion on the Well-Being of Under-16 Male Soccer Players

TL;DR

This study examines how frequent matches affect the well-being of young male soccer players, showing that fatigue increases while stress decreases during a congested schedule.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into how Four-Match Congestion impacts the well-being of under-16 soccer players using daily monitoring.

Findings

Fatigue increased significantly during the championship, while stress levels decreased (p < 0.05).

Muscle soreness, mood, and sleep quality showed significant fluctuations between matches 1 and 3.

Monitoring well-being can help coaches adjust training loads during congested match schedules.

Abstract

The assessment of player well-being through questionnaires is vital for managing training and match demands in soccer, aiming to mitigate injury and overtraining risks. This study investigates the impact of Four-Match Congestion on the well-being of under-16 male soccer players. An observational study design was implemented, focusing on the well-being of eighteen male soccer players throughout a championship. Players were monitored daily for indicators such as muscle soreness, stress levels, mood, fatigue, sleep quality, and an overall well-being index. Data collection was conducted by research team staff without interfering with established training plans. Preliminary findings indicate significant fluctuations in well-being indicators throughout the championship, with lower well-being scores correlating with higher match intensity. Specifically, it was indicated that the athletes’ fatigue increased, while their stress levels gradually decreased (p < 0.05). Furthermore, muscle soreness, mood, and sleep quality metrics fluctuated throughout the study, with significant differences found between matches 1 and 3. These results highlight the importance of monitoring well-being to inform coaches about necessary adjustments in training loads during congested match schedules. Understanding the relationship between match demands and player well-being can lead to effective recovery strategies, enhancing performance and reducing injury risks. Future research should explore the long-term impacts of well-being monitoring and its integration into training regimens to optimize athlete management in competitive settings.

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