Abstract
OBJECTIVES: The main aims of this study were to examine whether there are positional- and between-quarter differences in the physical load of elite female field hockey players during international matches. METHODS: Twenty-three international female field hockey players were equipped with Global Positioning Systems devices, while competing over nine international matches. RESULTS: Players covered a mean relative distance, relative player load, and distance covered in the form of low-, moderate-, and high intensity activities of 107.5 m/min, 10.3 AU/min, 41.6%, 47.9%, and 9.9%, respectively. Defenders achieved the lowest relative Player load (ES: 0.8-1.1) and greatest distance covered in the form of low intensity activities compared to Midfielders and Forwards (ES: 0.8-0.9). Forwards and Midfielders covered significantly greater distance in the form of high intensity activity compared to Defenders (ES: 1.6-2.2). Significant reductions in relative distance, relative Player load, and moderate intensity activity are observed for all positions between Quarters 1-4 despite the availability of unlimited substitutions. However, players were able to maintain their high intensity activity throughout the match with no significant differences between Quarters 1-4. The majority of variables were higher (ES > 0.2) during Quarter 2 compared to Quarter 3, especially for Midfielders and Defenders. CONCLUSIONS: Current findings provide further evidence on the positional- and between-quarter external match load of international female field hockey players that coaches should consider when designing training programs and drills to better prepare players for match demands. The results also provide some insight into the fatigue experienced by players and the possible pacing strategies they employ during matches. These findings support the need for re-warm-ups and may further influence how coaches time their substitutions to enhance running performance in future.