Key Success Factors in Soccer: Visitor Ratings
We asked people to rate the range of physical and mental factors that contribute to successful performance in sports. Not all of these factors are important for Soccer players - and that is what this survey was about.
Here are the results of how important people think each of these factors are to the success of Soccer player (note, these are just the average opinions of visitors to this site). You can read a more detailed description of the factors. This survey is an extension of a previous (though still active) poll asking you to select the single most important FITNESS component for Soccer.
Results
Below is a summary of each factor rated by visitors to our website, with average scores on a scale of 1 to 5:
- Body Size and Composition – Average Rating: 2.9
- Aerobic Endurance – Average Rating: 3.7
- Strength & Power – Average Rating: 3.6
- Speed / Quickness – Average Rating: 3.9
- Flexibility – Average Rating: 3.4
- Agility – Average Rating: 3.8
- Balance & Coordination – Average Rating: 3.8
- Reaction Time – Average Rating: 3.8
- Analytic & Tactical Ability – Average Rating: 3.9
- Motivation & Self Confidence – Average Rating: 3.8
- Coping with Pressure Situations – Average Rating: 3.7
- Skill and Technique – Average Rating: 4.1
Analysis of Each Success Factor in Soccer
1. Body Size and Composition (2.9)
Body size and composition received a rating of 2.9, suggesting that while physical build plays a role, it is less crucial than other skills in soccer. A variety of body types succeed in soccer, as skill, speed, and endurance are more influential. A lean physique may aid in agility and speed, but a player’s build is not a defining factor in their success on the field.
2. Aerobic Endurance (3.7)
Aerobic endurance scored 3.7, reflecting its importance in a sport characterized by continuous movement. Soccer players cover large distances over a 90-minute game, requiring sustained cardiovascular fitness to maintain energy and performance. Strong aerobic endurance allows players to consistently make runs, press opponents, and stay effective throughout the match.
3. Strength & Power (3.6)
Strength and power, with a rating of 3.6, are important for handling physical contact and making powerful shots or headers. Core and leg strength provide stability and enable players to shield the ball, challenge opponents, and execute powerful kicks. While power is essential, especially for defenders and forwards, technique often outweighs raw strength in soccer.
4. Speed / Quickness (3.9)
Speed and quickness scored 3.9, underscoring their importance in creating separation, outpacing defenders, and reacting quickly to plays. Quickness is critical for attackers breaking through defenses and for defenders needing to close gaps rapidly. Speed aids in offense, defense, and transitions, allowing players to capitalize on breakaway opportunities or intercept the ball.
5. Flexibility (3.4)
Flexibility received a score of 3.4, indicating a supportive but not primary role in soccer. Flexibility, particularly in the legs and hips, allows for a greater range of motion, which is helpful for tackling, changing direction, and reducing injury risk. While not as essential as speed or endurance, flexibility aids players in maintaining control over dynamic movements.
6. Agility (3.8)
Agility, rated at 3.8, is vital for making quick changes in direction and controlling the ball in tight spaces. Soccer requires rapid adjustments in positioning and body orientation, and high agility allows players to maneuver effectively around opponents, evade defenders, and maintain ball control. This skill is crucial for midfielders and attackers when executing dribbles or evading challenges.
7. Balance & Coordination (3.8)
Balance and coordination, also rated at 3.8, play an important role in maintaining control during shots, passes, and physical confrontations. Balance allows players to stay steady while dribbling, shooting, and challenging for the ball, while coordination is key for executing precise passes and controlling the ball. These abilities are particularly important when attempting technical moves under pressure.
8. Reaction Time (3.8)
Reaction time, with a score of 3.8, is crucial for responding quickly to the ball and adapting to opponents’ movements. Quick reflexes help players make last-minute saves, intercept passes, and adjust their positioning in real time. Effective reaction time allows players to anticipate and react to changing game situations, which is essential for both defenders and goalkeepers.
9. Analytic & Tactical Ability (3.9)
Analytic and tactical ability scored 3.9, highlighting the importance of strategic thinking in soccer. Players must read the game, anticipate opponents’ actions, and make quick tactical decisions, such as choosing the best pass or positioning. Tactical understanding helps players make effective decisions, contributing to a cohesive and strategic team approach.
10. Motivation & Self Confidence (3.8)
Motivation and self-confidence, also rated at 3.8, are important for maintaining focus, especially under challenging circumstances. Confident players are more likely to execute bold moves, take shots, and make assertive passes. Motivation helps players push through fatigue and stay committed to their team’s goals, making it valuable for sustained performance.
11. Coping with Pressure Situations (3.7)
Coping with pressure scored 3.7, underscoring the need for composure during high-stakes moments. Soccer matches often hinge on crucial plays, and players who can manage stress are more likely to execute key moves effectively. Composure is particularly important during penalty situations, high-pressure plays, and late-game scenarios.
12. Skill and Technique (4.1)
Skill and technique, with the highest rating of 4.1, are foundational for success in soccer. Mastery of ball control, passing, shooting, and dribbling is essential for consistent performance on the field. Skilled players can perform precise movements under pressure, adapt to dynamic play, and contribute to their team’s scoring and defensive efforts.
Conclusion: Key Factors for Success in Soccer
In soccer, the most critical success factors include Skill and Technique, Speed / Quickness, Analytic & Tactical Ability, Balance & Coordination, and Agility. These attributes highlight the sport’s demands for technical skill, strategic thinking, and quick movements, allowing players to perform effectively across all areas of the game.
Less essential factors, such as Body Size and Composition and Flexibility, play supportive roles but are secondary to core attributes like skill, agility, and tactical understanding. Overall, success in soccer relies on a mix of technical mastery, physical quickness, and mental resilience, equipping players to compete effectively in this fast-paced, team-oriented sport.
Related Pages
- more Soccer polls
- Rate factors of success in other sports
- More about components of fitness
- Top ranking sports for fitness components
- More about factors of success in sports
- List of Sports and Fitness Polls
- Other fitness polls
- suggest a poll
Any comments, suggestions, or corrections? Please let us know.
Old Comments
Commenting is closed on this page, though you can read some previous comments below which may answer some of your questions.
- Thanks now I got the needs of football. (from t.vinoth, Aug 2011)
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