The Effect of a Proposed Training Program (FIFA the 11) on Reducing Sports Injuries and Improving Some Physical Abilities of Football Players Aged (14) Years in Iraq

Abstract

There is a dearth of evidence regarding the use of sports injury prevention programs, especially among junior footballers. The (FIFA the 11) Injury Prevention Program was developed by the FIFA Medical Research Center (F-MARC) to help reduce the risk of injury in football players aged (14) and over. The aim of this study is to identify the effect of using (FIFA the 11) program exercises to reduce sports injuries and improve some of the physical and skill abilities of football players aged (14) years. The study sample consisted of (37) players who were divided into two groups, experimental (18) players and control (19) players, from soccer team in (Amo Baba) Football School, Age 14.1 (1.3) years; Length 1.34 (.09) cm; BMI 34.8 (3.6) kg. The experimental group applied the training program for a period of (12) weeks, and for (5) days per week, while the control group applied the normal training. Both groups (experimental EXP) and (control CON) performed the tests: the SARGEN JUMP test; PRONE HOLD test; STANDING LONG JUMP test; AGILITY test; (20m) RUNNING SPEED test. The most important results of the research indicated that the training program affected all study variables with statistical significance at the level (P < 0.05), as the incidence rates of injury per 1000 hours (training and playing) are (1.52%) in the experimental group and (5.34%) in the group. The control group, which is equivalent to about (3.82%) of the injuries less in the experimental group. The incidence of injuries (light and medium) in the experimental group was (4), while it was (15) in the control group. The value of the vertical jump test was (7.2%EXP) and (-1.09% CON), respectively, with a significant level of (0.008). The value of prone hold test was (58.7% EXP) and (11.4% CON) and the explosive strength test for the legs was (4.59% EXP) and (0.7% CON), respectively with a level of significance (0.004), as well as the agility test (-5.1% EXP), and (0.8% CON) respectively with a significant level of significance (0.006), and the (20m) test the maximum speed (-4.6% EXP), and (2.1% CON) respectively with a significant level of significance (0.002). The most important, effects of exercises on ligaments, tendons, and maximum speed. Therefore, we recommend inclusion of such programs in the training of young football players.