THEORETICAL AND METHODOLOGICAL PRINCIPLES OF OPTIMIZING SPECIAL PHYSICAL TRAINING FOR YOUNG FOOTBALL PLAYERS AGED 12–13 IN YOUTH SPORTS SCHOOLS

Abstract

The article addresses the pressing issue of optimizing specialized physical training (SPT) for young football players at the initial stage of sports specialization (12-13 years old). The relevance of the study is determined by the need to find innovative approaches to developing key conditioning qualities that determine game performance in the modern context of youth sports schools (YSS). Modern football is characterized by a constant increase in game intensity, which places higher demands on players' physical fitness levels. The 12-13 year age stage is critically important in shaping a future footballer, as this is the age when sensitive periods for the development of speed-strength qualities, agility, and coordination are observed. However, traditional approaches to organizing the training process in many YSS do not always meet modern requirements, necessitating the search for new ways to improve specialized physical training. The aim of the work was to study modern coaching approaches, problems, and needs in the field of SPT to scientifically substantiate ways to improve this process. Materials and methods. To achieve this aim, a set of interrelated research methods was used. The primary empirical method was a survey of coaches from YSS and football academies specializing in working with the 12-13 year age group. The study involved 45 respondents with varying coaching experience (from 3 to over 10 years), which allowed for obtaining representative data. The questionnaire included 11 structured questions divided into four blocks. Additionally, an analysis of scientific and methodological literature on the research problem was conducted, allowing for a theoretical justification of the work directions. Results. The survey of coaches (n=45) revealed key problems in organizing SPT: varying levels of player preparedness (82%), a shortage of training time (71%), and insufficient material-technical resources (49%). A significant discrepancy was found between the recognition of the priority of developing speed-strength qualities and agility (78%) and the limited use of modern methods (e.g., plyometrics – 24%). The most pressing needs for coaches were identified as gaining knowledge on integrating SPT into technical-tactical training (76%) and methods for individualizing workload (69%). Conclusions. Based on the results, practical recommendations for optimizing the training process are proposed, including: implementing a differentiated approach, increasing the use of innovative techniques, and combining the development of physical qualities with technical-tactical training. The proposed measures are aimed at improving the effectiveness of training sports reserves in YSS.