Quantifying change of direction load using positional data from small-sided games in soccer

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Soccer Performance Analysis

Background:

• Accurate quantification of change of direction (COD) load is crucial for understanding soccer player exertion.
• Small-sided games (SSG) are commonly used training methods, but their impact on COD load requires further investigation.
• Positional data offers a promising avenue for objective load measurement during SSG.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify change of direction (COD) load using positional data during small-sided games (SSG).
• To assess the criterion and construct validity of this COD load measure in elite male youth soccer players.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-five elite male youth soccer players participated in three SSG with varying field dimensions.
• Positional data was collected using a Local Position Measurement system.
• COD load was calculated based on velocity and changes in heading direction, with criterion and construct validity assessed against other load indicators and field sizes.

Main Results:

• A strong correlation was found between COD load and total distance covered (r=0.74) and running distance (r=0.84).
• Larger field dimensions (medium and large) resulted in a significantly higher COD load compared to smaller fields.
• The COD load measure showed significant differences across varying SSG field sizes.

Conclusions:

• The developed COD load measure exhibits sufficient criterion validity, correlating strongly with established running load indicators.
• The COD load measure demonstrates adequate construct validity, with sensitivity to changes in SSG field dimensions.
• This validated COD load measure can be effectively utilized in SSG to monitor soccer player training load.