In the rapidly evolving landscape of women’s football, the health and well-being of players are increasingly coming under the spotlight. The demands on players have intensified, leading to concerns about the congested fixtures and their impact on player health.
The amount of ACL injuries in 2023 was phenomenal. During the world cup, at least 25 players could not take part due to ACL injuries. In the WSL last season, we saw Arsenal take a huge hit with 4 players out due to the same injury. Congested Fixtures and their Toll The crux of the issue lies in the congested fixture list that women footballers face. A typical season sees players navigating through a maze of league matches, cup competitions, and international duties. This packed schedule means less time for rest between games, increasing the risk of both physical and mental fatigue.
A lack of funding is another contributor to the issue. With little facilities available, even more so at grassroots levels, it means many young female athletes don’t have gym access or aren’t taught the important fundamentals of being an athlete. With the appropriate training, especially suited to women’s bodies, injuries will be prevented.
Physical injuries, particularly those stemming from overuse, become a real concern. Women are six times more likely to suffer from an ACL injury than men. The absence of adequate recovery time not only impairs performance but also escalates the likelihood of long-term health consequences. The stress of continuous competition, combined with limited personal downtime, may lead to burnout, a condition often overlooked in professional sports. Mental Health: An Integral Part of Player Welfare Mental health is an essential component of overall player welfare, yet it is frequently overshadowed by physical fitness and injuries. In women’s football, where the pressure to perform and sustain a career is immense, mental health challenges can be exacerbated by the demanding schedule.
The importance of mental rest and recovery is as crucial as physical recuperation. Periods of mental strain can lead to decreased motivation, emotional exhaustion, and a decline in cognitive functions, directly impacting a player's performance on the field.
A Way Forward
Addressing these concerns requires a multifaceted approach. The key to this is revising the football calendar to ensure adequate rest periods. Governing bodies, in collaboration with leagues and clubs, must consider the implications of the current schedules and work towards a more sustainable model.
Clubs play a pivotal role too. By adopting rotation policies and focusing on developing squad depth, they can manage player workload more effectively. This not only aids in reducing fatigue-related injuries but also promotes a more balanced team dynamic.
Furthermore, establishing player welfare policies is essential. These policies should encompass both physical and mental health aspects, ensuring that players receive the support they need. Regular health monitoring, access to mental health resources, and creating platforms for players to voice their concerns are steps in the right direction.
As women’s football continues to grow, the need to prioritize player health has never been more critical. Balancing the demands of the game with the well-being of the players is a challenge, but it’s one that the football community must meet head-on. We have research on why these injuries are happening and we do seem to be moving in the right direction research wise. What we need to see is schedule changes and investment into long term physical performance to prevent injuries.
By fostering an environment that values player health and welfare, the sport can continue to thrive and develop, ensuring a bright future for women's football.
Women’s football is levelling up, our care and facilities should be too.
Written by,
Kya Banasko
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