(54) SHAPE THE PACE: TRAINING LOAD INFLUENCE ON MATCH TEMPO IN DI WOMEN’S SOCCER

Purpose: Match tempo (MT) is a tactical determinant of performance as it dictates the speed and flow of ball movement and decision-making on the field. A higher MT often reflects an ability to maintain possession under pressure, increasing opportunities to attack. This analysis aims to evaluate the effects of training load on MT in Division 1 women’s soccer. Methods: Thirty-three NCAA DI women’s soccer players (mean±SD; age=20.2±1.5 yrs) were tracked across a competitive season for training load (total distance [TD; m], accelerations [#], decelerations [#], high intensity running [HIR; m >15kph], and sprint distance [m >21kph]) using wearable GPS tracking devices, two (MD-2) and one day (MD-1) prior to match day. MT was measured as mean passes per minute of attacking ball possession in players that averaged at least 20 minutes of play. Bivariate correlations were used to characterize relationships, with stepwise linear regressions applied to significant outcomes. MD-2 TD (r=0.549, p=0.02), accelerations (r=0.528, p=0.015), and HIR (r=0.594, p=0.007) were positively correlated with MT, accounting for 41% of the variance. In contrast, MD-1 decelerations showed a negative correlation with MT (r=-0.452, p=0.03) and explained 21% of MT variance. No other training components were identified as significant predictors of MT (p > 0.05).Results: MD-2 TD (r=0.549, p=0.02), accelerations (r=0.528, p=0.015), and HIR (r=0.594, p=0.007) were positively correlated with MT, accounting for 41% of the variance. In contrast, MD-1 decelerations showed a negative correlation with MT (r=-0.452, p=0.03) and explained 21% of MT variance. No other training components were identified as significant predictors of MT (p > 0.05). Conclusions: MD-2 training load is a significant predictor of tactical performance. HIR and accelerations (which simulate a high press) are crucial for maintaining possession under pressure and increasing attacking opportunities during MD. In contrast, excessive MD-1 decelerations may hinder the speed of ball movement and decision-making, potentially due to muscle soreness from the high eccentric loads experienced during deceleration events. Practical Applications: Combining small-sided games and open-field drills on MD-2 exposes athletes to accelerations and high-intensity running, replicating game demands. On MD-1, expanding deceleration space from high-intensity actions such as sprints can reduce eccentric load and muscle fatigue, enhancing game readiness. Acknowledgements: None