Publications by authors named "Matthew R Blair"
Effect of Match Schedule Density on Self-Reported Wellness and Sleep in Referees During the Rugby World Cup.
Int J Sports Physiol Perform
September 2023
Purpose: To examine the effect of match schedule on self-reported wellness and sleep in rugby union referees during the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Methods: Following an observational design, 18 international-level male referees participating in the 2019 Rugby World Cup completed a daily questionnaire to quantify wellness status (sleep quality, mood, stress, fatigue, muscle soreness, and total wellness) and sleep characteristics (bedtime, wake-up time, and time in bed) from the previous night across the tournament. Linear mixed models and effect sizes (Hedges gav) assessed differences in wellness and sleep characteristics between prematch and postmatch days surrounding single-game and 2-game congested match schedules (prematch1, postmatch1, prematch2, and postmatch2 days).
Article Synopsis
- The study aimed to analyze the movements, heart rate, and perceived exertion of lead referees during Rugby World Cup matches.
- A total of 11 referees were monitored across 29 matches, with data showing that referees covered an average of 6674 meters, with significant differences in high-speed running and average speed during Knockout versus Pool matches.
- The research highlights the impact of match stages on referee performance, indicating a need for further investigation into factors that influence their on-field effectiveness, offering valuable insights for their preparation in future competitions.
Physical and Physiological Demands of Elite Rugby Union Officials.
Int J Sports Physiol Perform
October 2018
Purpose: To examine the movement and physiological demands of rugby union officiating in elite competition.
Methods: Movement demands of 9 elite officials across 12 Super Rugby matches were calculated, using global positioning system devices. Total distance (in m), relative distance (in m·min), and percentage time spent in various speed zones were calculated across a match.