HS-41 The Physical Demands of NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer Athletes by Match Outcome

BACKGROUND: To assess the differences in physical demands of D1 women’s soccer athletes by match outcome (win, loss, draw). METHODS: Data from 19 games (16 regular season and 3 post-season) during the 2024 competitive season were analyzed from starters, defined as ≥ 45 minutes of play time in ≥ 50% of matches. Prior to each match, athletes were fitted with a 10 Hz Global Positioning System (GPS; Catapult Sports), worn between the scapulae in a sports bra. GPS units were activated prior to warm-ups and turned off following the match. Data files were manually adjusted to include only match play and subsequently extracted for analysis using manufacturer software (PlayerTek). To compare physical demands by outcome, matches were categorized as either win, loss, or draw. RESULTS: A total of 10 athletes were included in the analysis. Women’s soccer athletes covered a mean distance of 9633 ± 1136 m, sprinted 22 ± 4 times, accelerated 61 ± 10 times, decelerated 85 ± 18 times, and reached peak speeds of 26.5 ± 0.5 kmh, resulting in a mean energy expenditure of 1091 ± 138 kcal. No differences were observed for any metric between match outcomes. CONCLUSION: External loads are similar for D1 women’s soccer athletes during wins, losses, and draws. Accordingly, training may not need to be altered pending match outcome.