05.Oct.2009 | CHICAGO (Oct. 5, 2009) – U.S. Soccer Development Academy clubs were introduced to SPARQ Training during the first two years of the Academy program, and this year will integrate SPARQ Self-Testing into their training regimen.

SPARQ, which stands for Speed, Power, Agility, Reaction and Quickness, was introduced at the 2008 Spring Showcase and all Academy players were tested twice during the 2008-09 season by SPARQ trainers. Each club received 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. SPARQ Testing will be required at the beginning of each season and again at the 2010 Spring Showcase.

“Soccer specific athleticism is an important piece of the player development process and SPARQ has become a valuable resource to the Development Academy clubs and players,” said U.S. Soccer Development Academy Director of Scouting Tony Lepore. “This year we are providing each Academy club with the tools to SPARQ self-test to more readily evaluate, record, and track progress in these areas throughout the course of the season while also using this information to help plan programs to best meet the physical needs of the individual and team.”

There are five tests conducted in order to receive a soccer-specific SPARQ rating: Body mass, vertical jump, 20-meter sprint, arrowhead agility and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery. Once tests are administered and data is collected, athletes and their coaches will have a better understanding of areas in which each athlete must work on in order to improve...

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