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Stay updated with the latest public health research, commentary, and field notes from our editorial team.

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Cracking the Code of Teamwork in Soccer

October 9, 2025 · 5 min read

What separates a team that keeps the ball flowing from one that constantly loses possession? The answer might not just be talent—it could be network science. A new systematic review demonstrates how Social Network Analysis (SNA)—a tool borrowed from sociology and mathematics—can reveal the hidden connections that shape success in soccer. If you’ve ever watched Barcelona’s […]

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Development

The Impact of Field Orientation on Soccer Small-Sided Games

There’s a continuous quest to optimize training methods to closely mirror the real-game scenarios. A pivotal study in this field, titled The influence of the field orientation on the representativeness of the positional dynamics in soccer small-sided games published in the Journal of Sports Sciences, sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of soccer training: the […]

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Culture

The Power of Attachment in Soccer: Lessons from the 2002 FIFA World Cup

As soccer enthusiasts and coaches worldwide continually seek ways to inspire and develop players, the study Effect of 2002 FIFA World Cup: Point of Attachment That Promotes Mass Football Participation” offers groundbreaking insights. This research not only revisits the memorable 2002 World Cup (US beat Portugal! US into the quarterfinals!) but also uncovers the critical […]

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Health

The Mind Game: Mental Health in Women’s Semi-Elite Soccer

Mental health often takes a backseat in women’s semi-elite soccer. The study, “Mental ill-health in semi-elite women’s soccer in England: a mixed-methods approach” published in the International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, dives deep into this under-explored area. This research not only sheds light on the prevalence of mental health issues among semi-elite female […]

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Development

So you want to start a rec soccer league?

Starting a recreational soccer league for adults in your community is a wonderful initiative that can bring people together, promote fitness, and foster a sense of camaraderie. Whether you’re a soccer enthusiast, a community leader, or just someone looking to make a positive impact, launching a league requires thoughtful planning and organization. In this blog […]

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Health

Implementing Effective Concussion Guidelines in Soccer

In the fast-paced world of soccer, the safety and health of players often take center stage, especially when it comes to head injuries and concussions. A recent article titled Sport-related concussion in soccer –a scoping review of available guidelines and a call for action to FIFA & soccer governing bodies, published in a reputable journal, […]

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Development

Demystifying Talent Development in Youth Soccer: Insights from English Lower-League Development Programs.

In the world of youth soccer, identifying and nurturing talent is a complex and multifaceted process. The insightful article “Soccer Player Characteristics in English Lower-League Development Programmes: The Relationships between Relative Age, Maturation, Anthropometry and Physical Fitness” (Lovell et al., 2015) offers a compelling look into the factors influencing talent identification and development in youth […]

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Analytics

Big Data in Soccer

In the world of professional soccer, a revolution is quietly taking place, one that is set to change the game forever. This revolution is rooted in the realm of big data, particularly in tactical performance analysis. The article “Unlocking the potential of big data to support tactical performance analysis in professional soccer: A systematic review,” […]

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Development

Hidden Gems in Soccer: A Deep Dive into the Relative Age Effect

The world of soccer is buzzing with strategies to unearth the next big talent. However, a recent study titled “He’s Just a Wee Laddie”: The Relative Age Effect in Male Scottish Soccer sheds light on a critical, often overlooked aspect of player development: the Relative Age Effect (RAE). This phenomenon has significant implications for soccer […]

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