Speed and change of direction differences in pre- and adolescent youth soccer players

Speed and change of direction (CoD) are important factors in the soccer, develop from childhood and determine the performance of soccer players. Aim. The purpose of this study was to examine the development of speed and CoD in pre- and adolescent soccer players and also to examine any differences on CoD performance associated with CoD right (CoDR) or left side (CoDL). Materials and Methods. The study involved 75 soccer players divided into 3 different age groups (U12, U14 and U16). The players performed a 20m sprint in straight line and CoD on both sides using the Arrowhead Agility Test (AAT). Results. Significant differences between ages were recorded in speed (F(2.72) = 118.9; p = 0.000)) and CoDR (F(2.72) = 8.668; p = 0.000), with U16 being superior to other ages, while significant difference in CoDL was observed between U14 and U16 with U12 (p = 0.007 and p = 0.000, respectively) but not between U14 and U16 (p = 0.159). Conclusion. Speed and CoD appear to develop with age, but CoDL, as measured by AAT, appears to be influenced by the use of dominant foot (DL).