Introduction and Considerations for Conducting Athletic Performance Assessments and Monitoring

ABSTRACT The purpose of this review is to provide practitioners with knowledge for developing an athlete assessment system and to help inform coaches and researchers about the research process, should they choose to publish assessment data. Information related to evidence-based practice methods will help readers formulate a critical approach to research for enhancing performance outcomes. Precursors to data collection involve pretesting certifications, laboratory set up, data collection, and testing protocols. This includes medical clearance and considerations for how the testing session will run. Other considerations include the following: where the data will get collected (laboratory vs. field), assessment selection, and ensuring the athletes are adequately prepared and familiarized with the protocol. Approaching data collection involves addressing factors related to assessments, athletes, and additional considerations. Factors related to assessments cover the quantity and quality of the staff collecting the data, cost and selection of equipment, time, the environment, and data management. Factors related to athletes include the fatigue accumulated from previous tests or training, the athlete's knowledge of the assessment, and their ability to give maximal effort and remain motivated throughout data collection. Additional considerations cover aspects of assessment, validity, and reliability.