The effect of small-sided game training on Hoff test scores in elite young soccer players

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of small-sided game (SSG) training on Hoff test scores in elite young soccer players. This study included 21 healthy and voluntary young male soccer players. SSG training programs were administered for 4 weeks (total 12 training sessions), and 3 days a week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday). In addition, the participants were taken in soccer-specific Hoff test before and after SSG. Age, height, weight and body mass index values of the participants were taken before the study. Running distance, heart rate and loading intensity values were obtained from SSG and Hoff tests. One-way ANOVA test was used to determine the variances between the first and last test means. The linear relations between the obtained variables were determined by Pearson Correlation Coefficient. P<0.05 was considered significant in the tests. There was a significant improvement between the pre- and post-test variables of the study group (p<0.05). In the relations between the variables, it was observed that there was a relationship between medium and very high level in positive or negative direction (p<0.01). It was concluded that the capacity of elite young players increased due to improvements of running distance, heart rate and loading intensity. Also, the Hoff test values, which include soccer-specific movements, can help coaches in determining the capacity of elite young players and preparing their training programs