Match-Play External Load and Internal Load in NCAA Division II Women's Soccer

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Soccer Performance Analysis

Background:

• Understanding the physical demands of soccer is crucial for optimizing training and preventing injuries.
• NCAA Division II women's soccer represents a distinct competitive level with potentially unique physiological profiles.
• Differentiating between external load (work performed) and internal load (physiological response) provides a comprehensive view of player exertion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify average match-play external and internal load indicators in NCAA Division II women's soccer.
• To identify positional differences (midfielder, forward, defender) in these load metrics.
• To explore relationships between various external and internal load variables during match play.

Main Methods:

• External load was measured using total distance, relative distance, sprint distance, peak speed, number of accelerations, and Player Load.
• Internal load was assessed via session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE).
• Mixed-factor analysis of variance and correlation analyses were employed to examine positional and temporal differences and variable relationships.

Main Results:

• Significant positional differences were observed for total distance, Player Load, match load, and peak speed (p < 0.05).
• Midfielders covered the greatest total distance and accumulated the highest Player Load and match load.
• Forwards exhibited the highest peak speeds, while defenders demonstrated consistent performance.
• Moderate correlations were found between relative distance and match load, and between sRPE and total distance, Player Load, and accelerations (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Positional variations in match-play demands exist within NCAA Division II women's soccer.
• Midfielders experience higher overall work rates, forwards higher peak speeds, and defenders consistent output.
• Integrating positional and temporal monitoring of both external and internal load data is recommended for effective player management.