Sport, Exercise, and Injury
Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): Sport, Exercise, and Injury

Injury pattern and risk factors in grassroots football: A study of 10-year-old athletes

Leo Ferdinand (Universitas Negeri Malang)
Yulingga Nanda Hanief (Universitas Negeri Malang)
Randy M. Manimtim (Batangas State University TNEU)



Article Info

Publish Date
17 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background: Young football players, especially in grassroots competitions, are highly susceptible to injury due to physical contact, fatigue, and underdeveloped motor skills, making injury prevention a critical aspect of early childhood sports. Objectives: This study aims to analyze the types, causes, and needs for injury prevention in 10-year-old football players. Methods: A descriptive quantitative design was used with the survey method. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire distributed to players injured during the competition. A purposive sampling technique was applied with inclusion criteria: (1) players injured during the match and (2) willing to participate. The final sample consisted of 25 athletes. Results: A total of 25 injury incidents were recorded. The most common type of injury was contusion, reaching 13 cases (52%), followed by muscle cramps (20%) and sprains (8%). Most injuries (64%) occurred in the lower extremities, especially the knee and thigh. Injuries predominantly occurred in the second half of matches (60%), with 88% caused by physical contact with an opponent. In the absence of medical personnel, coaches often found themselves in the role of first responders, a challenging position that requires adequate training and support. Many players continued to play despite their injuries, indicating a need for improved injury management. Conclusions: The study concluded that football injuries in children generally occur in the lower extremities, with bruising being the most dominant type. Player-to-player collisions caused most injuries, and many players could continue the match. This shows the importance of prevention, education, and follow-up for developing the sport of football.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

sei

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Public Health Other

Description

The journal focuses on sports injuries, exercise science, rehabilitation, and injury prevention across various levels of sports participation, from youth to elite athletes. It welcomes submissions that explore the physiological, biomechanical, psychological, and technological aspects of injury ...