Blogs - This Week In Soccer

World cup

The New Face of U.S. Soccer: A Chesapeake Bay Retriever.

Say hello to the newest symbol of American soccer pride: a spirited Chesapeake Bay Retriever, chosen to represent the grit, energy, and heart of all 27 U.S. National Teams. And here’s the best part: U.S. Soccer Insiders get to choose its official name. As the country gears up for the massive wave of soccer energy […]

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Culture

Why Fans Stay When Teams Fall

Here’s a stat that might surprise you: When a club gets relegated, fans don’t pull away—they actually feel more connected to their team. That’s what a major longitudinal study of German Bundesliga supporters discovered. And for coaches, club leaders, and player-development directors, this insight is more than interesting trivia—it’s a roadmap for building healthier, stickier […]

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Development

Enhancing Performance, Safety, and Fan Engagement

The intersection of science and sports has never been more prominent than in soccer. As athletes push the boundaries of human capability, scientific advancements are paving the way for enhanced performance, injury prevention, and deeper fan engagement. Soccer scientists are at the forefront, using rigorous research to transform insights into practical applications on the field. […]

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Strategy

Cognitive Psychology and Mental Training Enhances Soccer Performance

As the understanding of soccer dynamics evolves, new research offers profound insights into how mental and physical elements intertwine on the field. This synthesis highlights groundbreaking advancements in cognitive psychology, impacting soccer players’ performance and strategies. The Psychological Catalyst in Soccer It’s not just skill or stamina that defines a soccer player’s success; mental acuity […]

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Culture

The Science Behind Soccer Fans’ Brain Activity

Soccer isn’t just a game; it’s a profoundly emotional experience that resonates deeply with fans worldwide. Recent findings have revealed new insights into the impact of this sport on the brain. Let’s explore the fascinating science behind the brain activity of soccer fans and what it can teach us about passion, rivalry, and even fanaticism. […]

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Development

The Neuroscience of Soccer: How Passion and Loyalty Ignite the Brain

Neuroscientists have been studying the passionate world of soccer to understand the complex emotions that fans experience. These emotions range from elation to despair and sometimes even violence. A new study involving brain scans of soccer fans reveals intricate details on how passion and rage are processed within the brain. Understanding the Emotional Highs and […]

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Strategy

Speed Isn’t Everything: The Hidden Science of Pitch Control

Every coach has shouted it: “Close him down!” But what if raw speed isn’t the secret weapon we think it is?A new study from the University of Zaragoza and La Liga analysts flips a classic assumption on its head. By tracking players across 100 top-flight Spanish matches, researchers found that speed and control don’t always […]

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Health

Injury Prevention in Soccer: How Small Changes are Making a Big Impact

Soccer comes the risk of injury. No way around it. Yet, recent developments in sports science have been instrumental in minimizing these risks and enhancing player safety and performance. Let’s explore the latest research and practical applications that are making waves in soccer. Understanding the Risks Soccer injuries can range from minor sprains to serious […]

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Development

Big Change Coming in Youth Soccer: New Age Groups Start Fall 2026

If you have a child in youth soccer, get ready because starting in Fall 2026, age groups across the America will shift to a new seasonal calendar. This update changes how players are assigned to U-levels (U6, U7, U8, etc.) and is based on your child’s birthdate. Here’s what’s happening and why it matters. What’s […]

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Latest Insights & Analysis

The New Face of U.S. Soccer: A Chesapeake Bay Retriever.

Get the soccer science you need—every Saturday morning.

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every Saturday morning.