Application of a Preventive Training Program Implementation Framework to Youth Soccer and Basketball Organizations

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Implementation Science
• Youth Sports Research

Background:

• Preventive training programs (PTPs) are crucial for reducing injuries and enhancing athletic performance in young athletes.
• Effective PTP implementation requires consistent, correct application over time, with coaches being key facilitators.
• Little is known about the real-world feasibility of PTP implementation frameworks in youth sports.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the application of the 7-Step framework for promoting the implementation of preseason PTP workshops.
• To identify challenges in PTP implementation at the youth sport level.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive epidemiology study involving youth soccer and basketball organizations.
• Organizations with athletes aged 8-14 years were invited to a free preseason workshop on PTP implementation.
• A retrospective evaluation assessed the completion of the 7-Step framework's initial stages.

Main Results:

• Out of 62 invited organizations, only 12 completed steps 1-4 and 5a-5d of the framework.
• The most significant drop-off occurred during Step 1: 'Establishing Administrative Support'.
• No organization successfully completed all components of Steps 1-5.

Conclusions:

• Identifying challenging implementation steps is vital for improving PTP adoption.
• Establishing strong administrative support and initial engagement are critical for successful PTP implementation in youth sports.
• Addressing barriers in the early stages of the 7-Step framework is necessary to enhance PTP uptake.