Temporal Changes and Between-Competition Differences in the Activity Profile of Elite Hurling Referees

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Understanding the physical demands on elite hurling referees is crucial for optimizing performance.
• Previous research has not comprehensively analyzed activity profiles across different competition levels and phases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the activity profile of elite hurling referees in the National Hurling League (NHL) and All-Ireland Championship (AIC).
• To investigate temporal changes in activity across halves and quarters of matches.
• To compare physical demands across NHL divisions and AIC phases.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 10-Hz global positioning system (GPS) technology on 36 elite hurling referees.
• Collected data from 106 NHL and 85 AIC games.
• Analyzed various movement parameters including total distance, high-speed running (HSR), and very high-speed running (VHSR) distances.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in total distance or HSR distance between NHL and AIC games.
• Higher low-speed running (LSR) distance observed in AIC games compared to NHL games.
• Very high-speed running (VHSR) distance was significantly higher in lower divisions of the NHL.
• HSR distance was lower in the All-Ireland Series compared to Leinster and Munster Championships.

Conclusions:

• The physical demands on hurling referees show variations across different competition levels and phases.
• Findings can inform the development of targeted physical conditioning programs for referees.
• Specific training interventions may be needed to address demands in lower divisions and championship series.