Effects of Small-Sided Games and Repeated Sprint Training in Young Soccer Players

The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of 6-week Small-Sided Games (SSG) and Repeated Sprint Training (RST) on body composition, anaerobic power, and selected physical performance qualities in young male soccer players. A total of 24 active male soccer players (aged 16 to 20 years) participating in the Regional Amateur League were randomly assigned into three equal groups: 1. Small-Sided Games Group (SSGG): Completed a 4 vs. 4 transition possession game 3 days a week in addition to routine soccer training. 2. Repeated Sprint Training Group (RSTG): Completed a 20-meter maximal repeated sprint protocol 3 days a week in addition to routine soccer training. 3. Control Group (CG): Continued only their routine soccer practice schedule. Before and after the 6-week intervention, participants underwent laboratory and field testing to evaluate body composition (body fat percentage, fat-free mass, BMI), acceleration and maximal speed (10m and 20m sprint tests), agility (Illinois Agility Test), explosive lower-body power (countermovement jump), and maximal anaerobic power (30-second Wingate test). The main goal of the research is to determine which specific training method provides superior adaptations for acceleration, agility, explosive power, and body composition in competitive youth soccer players.

Inclusion Criteria: * Active male soccer players competing in the Regional Amateur League (BAL) * Age between 16 and 20 years * Voluntary participation with signed informed consent (and parental consent for minors) * No history of severe musculoskeletal injuries or orthopedic surgeries in the lower extremities within the past 6 months * Regular participation in team soccer practices Exclusion Criteria: * Missing more than 10% of the scheduled training sessions during the 6-week intervention * Occurrence of any acute musculoskeletal injury or illness preventing full participation in tests or training * Simultaneous participation in external structured strength or conditioning programs outside the study protocol * Failure to complete all pre- or post-intervention performance tests