A METHOD FOR THE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF JUMPING HEADERS IN SOCCER

Abstract

The aim of the present work was to develop a method for the evaluation of soccer heading performance in jumping headers by means of a stereophotogrammetric system. Three non-professional players were involved in this pilot study. The attention was focused on the following variables: the player’s jump height at the impact instant, the ball velocity variation and the initial ball angle after the impact with the forehead of the player. The analysis of these parameters permitted to characterize the biomechanical technique and the performance ability of each player in such a way that a trainer can define individual procedures to improve the efficacy of this fundamental skill in soccer. Finally an Elevation Index (E.I.) was developed to compare the players performances and to draft a ranking between them.