Original Research Within the ECNL

Original Research Within the ECNL

Injury and Mental Health

Examining more than 650 athletes from the 2024 season, the Center for Athlete Health and Performance found athletes that suffered injuries during the prior six months reported higher levels of anxiety and depression compared to those who remained healthy, even after they returned to play. The study also found more severe injuries, and a greater number of injuries,was associated with more severe levels of anxiety of depression.

Press Release (coming soon)

Infographic (PDF coming soon)

ECNL Injury Risk Reduction Program

In order to generate actionable evidence in elite youth soccer athletes, an innovative, nationwide, embedded in injury data collection infrastructure was developed to record injuries at ECNL events, determine the relationship between injury incidence and various risk factors, and guide future decision-making.

Infographic

References:
Watson, A., Behrendt, J., Staresinic, I., Sanfilippo, J., & Haraldsdottir, K. (2025). Match Injury Incidence and Risk Factors in American Youth Soccer: The Elite Clubs National League Injury Data Collection Program. https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.03.14.25323901