Differences in strength and speed of academy soccer players in Slovakia

This study compared the isometric strength and speed performance of elite youth soccer players regarding age groups and their selection to the national team. Eighty-three academy players from five age groups were compared in isometric peak force production in a bilateral knee flexion test (ISO 30°), abduction and adduction tests (ABD and ADD 60°). Their sprinting speed was evaluated by 10 and 30 meter sprint tests, and the 505 change of direction test (COD 180°).

The national team players are not relatively stronger compared to their academy peers. Consequently, sprinting speed demands are of special interest in the transition of players from the U15 to the U16 age group.