Master of Science (Exercise and Sport Studies)

Recognizing the limitations of applying male-centric findings to female athletes, this study investigates movement variability in female football athletes, assessing postural stability and hormonal influences akin to previous male-cohort studies. Twenty-four female athletes aged 19 to 35 from school, club, and national teams participated in the research. Movement variability was evaluated through single-legged balance tests, modified Star Excursion Balance Tests (mSEBT), and T-tests, examining functional movement variability. Linear and non-linear analyses, including recurrence quantification analysis (RQA), were conducted to explore temporal and structural changes. Results indicated no statistically significant differences in balance ability among female footballers across different playing levels (p-values: [0.122 - 0.859]) or menstrual cycle phases (p-value: 0.297) for centre of pressure (COP) mean velocity. External defenders exhibited the longest normative reach in multiple directions during mSEBT assessments. Notably, the participants' balance ability didn't correspond to enhanced performance in the T-test (p-values: [0.088-0.919]). Future research should consider employing standardized menstrual cycle tracking methods, studying the same individuals across multiple cycle phases, investigating movement variability across different football actions, and potentially collecting data during the off-season to minimize the influence of fatigue.