Association of Dribbling with Linear and Non-linear Sprints in Young Soccer Players of Bangladesh

Aim: The study was designed to examine the relationships between field-based dribbling performance [measured using the Mor-Christian general soccer ability skill test] and selected field-based short sprint test performances in Bangladeshi youth soccer players. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted by 60 male soccer players aged 16 to 19 years. Repeated sprint ability (RSA) and Illinois agility test evaluated for non-linear short sprints. The linear short sprint was evaluated by a 20-metre linear sprint experiment. Data was analyzed using Pearson correlation of coefficient and multiple regression equations. Results: The moderate positive relationship was found between the Mor-Christian dribbling performance and the selected change of direction sprinting. The results also showed that the 20m linear sprint with Mor-Christian dribbling performance had a statistically non-significant positive small correlation. Moreover, the four independent variables selected in the regression equation (RSA mean time, RSA best time, Illinois agility test, and 20m sprint test) explain 31.8% of the total dribbling performance variability. Conclusion: Both linear and non-linear sprinting are relevant motor fitness capabilities linked to soccer dribbling performance. Agility-based physical capacities were found to correlate more highly with dribbling. It is suggested that a proper training schedule be established and enforced in order to improve dribbling efficiency.