Presenter(s)
Tamas Sebestyen and Jonathan P. Bayer
Abstract
Introduction: To manage player health, minimize injury, and optimize performance in NCAA Division II soccer, this study analyzed positional demands using GPS technology. The findings provide insights into enhancing training plans and recovery based on specific positions. Methods: NCAA Division II female soccer players were tracked during sixteen in-season competitions using 10 Hz GPS wearable technology. Players were grouped into tactical roles including Wing Backs (WB), Center Backs (CB), Defensive Midfielders (6), Attacking Midfielders (10), and Forwards (9). Key metrics analyzed included Total Distance (TD), Total Sprint Distance (TSD), and Distance per Minute (D/M). Results: Forwards (9) and attacking midfielders (10) covered the highest average total distance. Forwards (9) registered the highest sprint distance (342 m), followed by wingbacks (WB) and attacking midfielders (10). Center backs (CB) covered the lowest total distance and sprint distance on average. Attacking midfielders (10) and forwards (9) maintained the highest intensity, measured in distance covered per minute.
College
College of Nursing & Health Sciences
Department
Health, Exercise & Rehabilitative Sciences
Campus
Winona
First Advisor/Mentor
Becky Heinert
Location
Kryzsko Great River Ballroom, Winona, Minnesota; United States
Start Date
4-23-2026 10:00 AM
End Date
4-23-2026 11:00 AM
Presentation Type
Poster Session
Format of Presentation or Performance
In-Person
Session
1b=10am-11am
Poster Number
70
Comparison of Total Distance and Sprint Distance Between Positions of Division II Female Soccer Players
Kryzsko Great River Ballroom, Winona, Minnesota; United States
Introduction: To manage player health, minimize injury, and optimize performance in NCAA Division II soccer, this study analyzed positional demands using GPS technology. The findings provide insights into enhancing training plans and recovery based on specific positions. Methods: NCAA Division II female soccer players were tracked during sixteen in-season competitions using 10 Hz GPS wearable technology. Players were grouped into tactical roles including Wing Backs (WB), Center Backs (CB), Defensive Midfielders (6), Attacking Midfielders (10), and Forwards (9). Key metrics analyzed included Total Distance (TD), Total Sprint Distance (TSD), and Distance per Minute (D/M). Results: Forwards (9) and attacking midfielders (10) covered the highest average total distance. Forwards (9) registered the highest sprint distance (342 m), followed by wingbacks (WB) and attacking midfielders (10). Center backs (CB) covered the lowest total distance and sprint distance on average. Attacking midfielders (10) and forwards (9) maintained the highest intensity, measured in distance covered per minute.

Comments
Sebestyen, Tamas; Bayer, Jonathan P