A multidimensional approach to factors influencing playing level and position in a school-based soccer programme

ABSTRACT

Objectives: To examine the factors influencing selection into playing levels and playing positions in a school-based soccer programme.

Methods: Anthropometry, maturation, physical capacity, technical ability and motor competence were assessed in 216 soccer players (aged 10–16 years) who participated in a school-based soccer programme. Team coaches selected players into playing levels, playing positions and provided subjective ratings of player ability.

Results: Multivariate analyses of covariance showed significant large and moderate differences between playing levels (F = 5.336, P < 0.001, η² = .30) and playing positions (F = 1.974, P = 0.002, η² = .14) respectively, for a combination of maturation, anthropometry, physical capacity, technical ability and motor competence, when adjusted for chronological age. Discriminant analysis revealed 64.8% of cases could be correctly classified into playing level with a combination of sprint speed, agility, aerobic fitness, technical ability and motor competence. Large differences in subjective coach ratings were found between positions for players in the highest playing level (F = 2.598, P = 0.001, η² = .16).

Conclusions: These findings contribute new evidence to highlight how individual characteristics influence the selection process in recreational youth soccer, which have important implications for talent development pathways in schools, clubs and academies.

KEYWORDS:

• Talent identification
• football
• motor competence
• maturation

Practical Applications

1. Coaches should avoid a reliance on physical attributes during the selection process, especially at a grassroots level, where maximising engagement, participation and diversity is recommended for long-term participation and enjoyment in sport.

2. Youth sports programmes should focus on the retention of young players who are not initially identified as talented, providing ongoing development opportunities which may allow them to overcome any potential selection bias associated with physical performance during the transition through adolescence.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.