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The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between aerobic endurance and linear speed on repeat sprint ability performance in female international footballers. Twenty-five female international football players completed 10-m, 20-m, 30-m linear speed, repeat sprint ability (RSA) and yo-yo intermittent recovery, level 1 tests. Pearson's product correlation (r) was used to assess the relationship between 10-m, 20-m and 30-m sprint times (S10-m, S20-m, S30-m) sprint time on the first trial of the repeated sprint test (RST1) and yo-yo intermittent recovery test, level 1 (YYIR1) with total repeated sprint time (RSTT). Linear regressions were used to describe the relationship between the dependent variable (RSTT) and independent variables (S10-m, S20-m, S30-m, RST1 and YYIR1). Pearson's correlation analysis indicated a large negative correlation between RSTT and YYIR1 performance (r =-0.58, P = .002), a very large significant relationship was established between S10-m and S20-m whilst an almost perfect relationship was present for S30-m and RST1. The results of the linear regression proved the independent variable RST1 explained 85% (adjusted R 2) of the variation in RSTT scores. S10-m, S20-m and S30-m performance accounted for 62-83% of the variation in RSTT scores whilst YYIR1 performance only accounted for 33.6%. The results of this study indicate that fast linear speed can positively impact on RSTT performance whilst reduced aerobic endurance capabilities may negatively influence RSTT performance in female international footballers.

This study aimed to compare the anthropometric physical performance characteristics of Irish female international footballers at U17, U19, and Senior age groups. Fifty-five (U17, n =24, U19, n =21, Senior, n = 10) female international football players participated in this study. The subjects underwent anthropometric measurements (height and body mass) and physical performance tests countermovement jump (CMJ), reactive strength index (RSI), 10-m, 20-m, 30-m linear sprint, and yo-yo intermittent recovery test level 1 (YYIR1). No significant differences were identified between any age groups for the anthropometric measures of height and body mass. Concerning the physical tests, senior players displayed greater CMJ scores in comparison with the U17 (P = 0.040). Senior players also possessed higher levels of reactive strength with large effect sizes present (ES = 0.83 - 0.92) in comparison to all age groups. No significant differences were identified between any of the age groups across the 10-m, 20-m, 30-m, and rolling 20-m linear speed assessments. Senior players covered the greatest distance in the YYIR1 (P = 0.0001) versus the U19 and U17. These results indicate there was no difference in the anthropometric profile of the age groups assessed. However, differences in physical performance characteristics were present between age groups, thus suggesting improvements in lower limb power and aerobic endurance are achievable in adulthood as players physically mature.

There is a growing debate, both in the academic and sporting worlds, about the most appropriate pathway for high potential young players in sport. In this regard, there has been a considerable focus on the age of selection into structured talent development pathways and the nature of the experience once players have been recruited. Given the economic and reputational currency associated with developing professional footballers in particular, it is unsurprising that professional football clubs continue to invest significant financial resources into their academy structures. Understandably, this recruitment policy has attracted substantial attention within the media and research community, with ethical concerns arising surrounding the impact early selection may have on the welfare and the experiences of the young players within the pathway. The aim of this perspective article was to critically consider the research underpinning the early engagement practises of football clubs and the extent to which, and how, the pathway can provide players with the most appropriate starting point for their development. This evidence points to the need to look beyond the prevalent ‘early specialisation vs. diversification’ debate in youth sport towards a consideration of an early engagement perspective that reflects the biopsychosocial influences on talent development and the socio-political environment that influences decisions. We provide practical recommendations focused on the quality of the early engagement experience.