Aerobic Capacity, Strength and Power Differences in Division III Women’s Soccer based on Position and Grade
Location
Hopwood Auditorium
Access Type
Campus Access Only
Presentation Type
Oral presentation
Entry Number
78
Start Date
4-16-2026 10:30 AM
End Date
4-16-2026 10:45 AM
School
School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Department
Exercise Physiology
Keywords
Exercise Physiology, Pre-season Readiness, NCAA DIII female collegiate athletes, force plate, VO2max, positional demands, grade composition changes
Abstract
NCAA Division III (DIII) female soccer players face a more condensed version of pre-season, meaning they have to come into the season with higher physical capabilities than winter or spring athletes. There is a plentiful amount of research on Division I soccer athletes, but there is a gap in the understanding of physiological needs or profiles of DIII players specifically across different positions or academic years. The purpose of this study is to compare the aerobic capacity (VO2max) and strength and power metrics of DIII female soccer players across different positions on the field and grade level to aim for better preseason fitness performance. Thirty-two female athletes aged 18-22 years old underwent testing before and throughout the season to determine physiological profiles. Aerobic capacity was determined with a 2-mile run test and the Yo-Yo intermittent test. Strength and power metrics were assessed during Isometric Mid Thigh Pull, and Countermovement Jumps on VALD force plates. Speed and agility were measured with the Flying 10 and a modified 5-10-5 test. The JASP software was used to compare positions (forward, midfield, defender, and goalkeeper) and grade level (freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior). We hypothesize that the forwards and midfield players will show significantly higher aerobic capacity or VO2max compared to defenders and goalkeepers. Whole defenders and goalkeepers will show significantly greater strength and power values. We do not hypothesize that there will be a significant difference in these metrics based on college grade level.
Primary Faculty Mentor(s)
Prof Sean Collins
Primary Faculty Mentor(s) Department
Prof Sean Collins
Additional Faculty Mentor(s)
N/A
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Aerobic Capacity, Strength and Power Differences in Division III Women’s Soccer based on Position and Grade
Hopwood Auditorium
NCAA Division III (DIII) female soccer players face a more condensed version of pre-season, meaning they have to come into the season with higher physical capabilities than winter or spring athletes. There is a plentiful amount of research on Division I soccer athletes, but there is a gap in the understanding of physiological needs or profiles of DIII players specifically across different positions or academic years. The purpose of this study is to compare the aerobic capacity (VO2max) and strength and power metrics of DIII female soccer players across different positions on the field and grade level to aim for better preseason fitness performance. Thirty-two female athletes aged 18-22 years old underwent testing before and throughout the season to determine physiological profiles. Aerobic capacity was determined with a 2-mile run test and the Yo-Yo intermittent test. Strength and power metrics were assessed during Isometric Mid Thigh Pull, and Countermovement Jumps on VALD force plates. Speed and agility were measured with the Flying 10 and a modified 5-10-5 test. The JASP software was used to compare positions (forward, midfield, defender, and goalkeeper) and grade level (freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior). We hypothesize that the forwards and midfield players will show significantly higher aerobic capacity or VO2max compared to defenders and goalkeepers. Whole defenders and goalkeepers will show significantly greater strength and power values. We do not hypothesize that there will be a significant difference in these metrics based on college grade level.
Comments
N/A