THE USE OF MODERN TECHNOLOGIES (TRACKING DEVICES, SOFTWARE, AND APPLICATIONS) IN YOUTH SPORTS TRAINING: A FIELD STUDY OF CHABAB AIN FAKROUN’S U19 TEAM

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the current state of the use of modern technologies in sports training for youth categories, particularly tracking devices (GPS), software, and digital applications, and to examine their effect on developing the physical performance of U19 players. This study is particularly important given the rapid changes taking place in modern sports training, where technology has become a key tool for regulating training loads and monitoring athletes’ physiological condition. The research problem concerned the extent to which coaches use tracking devices, software, and applications when training youth categories, and the effect of these technologies on the development of selected components of physical fitness. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach suited to the subject. The sample consisted of 16 U19 players from Chabab Ain Fakroun, in addition to 4 coaches. Data-collection tools included questionnaires for players and coaches, interviews, and physical tests to assess speed and speed endurance. The results showed that the level of use of modern technologies in training the U19 team at Chabab Ain Fakroun was moderate, with a usage rate of 62.5%. The results also revealed statistically significant differences in the speed and speed-endurance tests between the pre-test and post-test in favour of the post-test. The calculated t-values were 3.42 for speed and 4.18 for speed endurance at a significance level of 0.01. A significant positive correlation was also found between the use of tracking devices and improvements in physical fitness (r = 0.68). The study concluded that modern technologies contribute effectively to improving young players’ physical performance and recommended wider adoption of these technologies and training coaches in their use.