Implementation of a Comprehensive Well-Being Control and Monitoring Program in a Youth Soccer Academy
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the progression of implementing a comprehensive athlete well-being monitoring program within a soccer academy during the pre-season phase, involving a sample of 120 young players. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrated quantitative and qualitative analyses to achieve an in-depth understanding of the athletes' well-being. Weekly assessments were conducted throughout the pre-season, monitoring indicators such as muscle discomfort, stress levels, mood, fatigue, sleep quality, and a global wellness index. Results revealed statistically significant increases in muscle pain, stress, fatigue, and sleep disturbances (p = 0.001 in all cases), while mood remained relatively stable across the evaluation period (p = 0.46). Additionally, qualitative data obtained through reflective diaries underscored the critical role of these programs in guiding tailored training and recovery strategies, thereby promoting better physical and mental conditions. The findings highlight the urgent need to implement wellness monitoring systems in youth football training environments, as currently, there is a lack of tools enabling young athletes to effectively track and manage their internal training load. The adoption of such programs not only helps mitigate physical discomfort and psychological stress but also supports the overall well-being of young players. Based on these results, future research should focus on examining the long-term effects of these interventions to refine their design and maximize their positive impact on the athletic and personal development of young soccer players.
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References
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