Physiological and psychological characteristics of first division female football players

M.Phil. (Sport Science)Abstract: Introduction In Africa, South Africa has been among the pioneers of women’s football (FIFA, 2012). However, successive teams have repeatedly missed out on continental success at various championships over the past 15 years (FIFA, 2012). Aim This study aimed to determine the profiles of first division female football players in Gauteng with specific reference to physiological characteristics and psychological trends (mental toughness). In addition, the objective was to determine the nutritional intake and supplementation of first division female football players. Methods The research methods included both fieldwork and questionnaires. A mental toughness questionnaire was used to evaluate factors such as goal setting, confidence and concentration. A second questionnaire was used to gather descriptive information regarding such as nutrition and supplementation. Finally, various fitness tests (fieldbased) were used to describe the physiological profile of the female football players. Thus, a quantitative approach was used to gather data from both the questionnaires and fitness (field) tests. The study focused on the profiling of the first division female football players within the Gauteng province. The stratification of the sample was 12 teams, comprising a total of 148 players who completed the full testing procedure. Analysis of data was both descriptive and inferential in nature. A computer programme (SPSS version 20) was used to compute the results. Results The outcomes of the study showed that the fitness levels for all playing positions (goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and strikers) were statistically not significant and should be differentiated according to position. Furthermore, self-esteem and managing anxiety appear to be are two important mental skills that are required in terms of physical fitness within a football match...Coopoo, Y., Prof