Soccer simulation protocol development for U13, U14 and U15 age group soccer players

The aim of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of a novel soccer simulation protocol (SSP), which was designed to replicate the activity pattern typically recorded in U13, U14 and U15 soccer players’ match-play. Twenty (n=20) young male outfield soccer players: under 13 y (U13; n = 7, 1.57 ± 0.06 m, 47.8 ± 6.8 kg), under 14 y (U14; n = 7, 1.70 ± 0.06 m, 60.4 ± 8.4 kg) and under 15 y (U15; n = 6, 1.75 ± 0.07 m, 58.1 ± 2.6 kg) representative players from Auckland Football Federation (AFF) volunteered to participate in the study. The SSPs were performed on two occasions to determine test-retest reliability. Sprint speed (km.h-¹) was measured in one direction (15 m) using 5 Hz (with interpolated 10 Hz output) global positioning system units. The SSP running intensities (devised in a cyclical pattern) required participants to complete 4 blocks of exercise separated by 5 min recovery. No differences existed between trials in mean heart rate, leg power, perceptual scales and sprint speed (p>0.05). Reproducibility of the physical and physiological variables in these SSPs showed low Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) values suggesting the SSPs have good reliability. Further assessment on concurrent validity showed significant positive correlation between match-play and the SSPs ((r= 0.77, r= 0.80 and r= 0.82) for U13, U14 and U15 respectively. In conclusion, the SSPs appears to be a reliable and valid protocol for assessing young player that replicate the physiological and physical demands of youth soccer match-play.