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SPARQ Testing for Soccer

Do you have what it takes to be a football or soccer player? The SPARQ is a rating system designed to measure sport-specific athleticism. The results from these tests are combined and weighted using a formula specific to soccer.

SPARQ Boys and Girls Soccer Testing Protocols

• Body mass — used with the vertical jump result to calculate a leg power score.
• Standing Vertical Jump — a measure of leg explosive power.
• 20-meter sprint — maximal running speed over 20m.
• Arrowhead Agility — this agility test quantifies a soccer player’s ability to quickly switch directions.
• Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery —ability to repeatedly perform intervals over a prolonged period of time.

SPARQ Soccer Self-Test

There is also a SPARQ Self-Test Kit, which includes a stop watch, measuring tape, six cones and a notepad to record results along with an instructional booklet and DVD on how to conduct each test. The tests included are the same as above: Body Mass, Vertical Jump, 20m Sprint, Arrowhead Agility and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test.

Previous Test Protcols

The following tests were once part of the assessments in the Soccer SPARQ, but have been superceded by the tests described above.

• One Step Vertical Jump — jumping for maximum height, this test measures explosiveness, and is a reliable indicator of speed. Requiring a single step approach, this test is best measured using a Vertec though other methods may be used.
  
• 30 Meter Dash — measures linear running speed and sprint technique
• 30 Second Endurance Jump — measures agility and lower body strength endurance
• Overhead Power Ball Throw — measures core strength and total body power (boys use a 3kg ball, girls and youth use 2kg)
• Compass Drill — measures body control, lateral speed and ability to change directions. Also called the Agility Cone Drill.

Related Pages

• about the SPARQ Rating System
• fitness testing for soccer
• US Women Soccer Superstars - Victims of Their Own Success
• fitness testing for other sports