Injuries in adolescent and preadolescent soccer players.

This prospective study examined injury incidence, injury type, causative factors, and effect on playing status for injuries occurring among soccer players in a invitational tournament. Injury incidence was 23.8/10,000 player hours, and 62.5% were mild, with contusions, sprains, and strains predominating. Player to player contact, and player to ground contact accounted for 67% of the injuries. Females had a higher incidence of injuries. These results support other studies that show soccer is a relatively safe sporting activity for youth. Implications for continued safety may include adjustments in playing conditions for females, proper preparation of playing surfaces, education of coaches about safe coaching practices, and consistent refereeing.