Tests for Soccer Sports Performance
In soccer athletic performance, there are two major components: repeated sprint ability and agility. Repeated sprint ability refers to a player's straight line speed and their ability to produce maximum velocity 2-4 times with a 15-60 seconds of recovery time. Agility is the ability to start and stop quickly with little loss of speed.
Both need to be highly developed for success in soccer. When developing soccer speed and agility, it is important to test before, during (if possible), and after the training cycle. Here are some suggestions:
Repeated sprint ability (RSA) involves acceleration (0-10 m), maximum velocity (10-30 m) and speed endurance. There are different tests that are used to measure speed endurance. Research has shown that the average sprint distance in a soccer match is 17 m. A repeated sprint test (RST) of 12 x 20 m with a recovery of 20 seconds is a metric that matches the performance criteria well.
Distances of 10 m and 30 - 40 total (with 10 m splits) are used to measure acceleration and maximum velocity. Since the majority of soccer sprints are initiated while already moving, a rolling start should be used for max velocity. We use a 5 m start for our 30 m sprint test and record 10, 20, and 30 m performances. A stationary start should be used to measure acceleration (0-10 m). Both acceleration and max velocity should be tested twice with a minimum of two minutes recovery time between efforts.
It is critical that the testing be done electronically (our company uses the Freelap timing system) whenever possible.
There are many different tests for soccer agility testing: the 5-0-5, T test, S180 degree, zigzag, pro agility, and hexagon. When testing a large group in a short time, the pro agility test is best. It is possible to time agility electronically.
Please note that these tests are suggestions: form follows function. Test what you can, how best you can.
Testing and training results should be used as most people use streetlights: for illumination, not to lean against. I do my best to frame performance results in a positive context.
Good luck and win the day!