Are Linear Speed and Jumping Ability Determinants of Change of Direction Movements in Young Male Soccer Players?

The study was undertaken to investigate the relationships between linear speed, change of direction, and explosive power in the lower limbs of young soccer players. We aimed to determine the variables associated with effective change-of-direction speeds (time) based on the 30-m ZigZag (cutting maneuver) under 60° (CODS), and 30 m sprint divided into forward-backward-forward movement (CODS). Sixty young soccer players (age: 17.

Doubly Disadvantaged? The Relative Age Effect in Poland's Basketball Players.

The aim of this study was to identify the relative age effect (RAE) in young Polish male (n = 3849) and female (n = 3419) basketball players aged 14 to 22 years competing in the elite games of the Polish Youth Championships. The distribution of birth dates, body height, players' match statistics, and the results of teams participating in championships were identified. The RAE was observed in male and female group, regardless of players age.