The impact of a congested fixture schedule on neuromuscular performance in young soccer players
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This study aimed to analyse the effects of successive matches on vertical jump performance in youth soccer players and compare responses between starters and reserves. Seventeen players participated in a regional tournament with five consecutive matches (two 40-minute periods with a 10-minute interval between periods), separated by 24-hour intervals. Internal competitive load was monitored using session-RPE, while vertical jump performance was assessed pre- and post-match for matches 1 and 5. Results indicated a significant reduction in vertical jump height among starters after the fifth match (pre: 37.24 ± 4.58 cm vs. post: 33.72 ± 4.66 cm, p < .05), whereas reserves showed no significant changes. Starters also experienced higher internal load, monotony, and strain than reserves (p < .05). These findings highlight the disproportionate impact of congested schedules on starters, emphasizing the need for tailored load management strategies to mitigate neuromuscular fatigue and maintain player readiness during competitions with excessively congested schedules. This study underscores the importance of individualized recovery protocols and strategic rotation of players to optimize performance and prevent overtraining. Coaches and sports scientists are encouraged to incorporate neuromuscular and internal load monitoring to enhance player health and performance sustainability in competitive settings.
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