Effects of a Targeted Prevention Program on Change-of-Direction Biomechanics and Performance in Elite Female Soccer Players

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common in female soccer and frequently occur during change-of-direction (COD) movements without contact. Biomechanical deficits during these movements are considered important risk factors. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a targeted injury-prevention program on biomechanical movement quality and performance during change-of-direction tasks in female soccer players. Participants will perform a 90° cutting task during which biomechanical movement quality will be assessed using the Cutting Movement Assessment Score (CMAS), while performance will be evaluated using cutting time measured with photoelectric timing gates. Participants will also perform the 505 Agility Test to assess additional change-of-direction performance. In addition, subjective perceptions of functional confidence and performance will be collected using Likert-scale questionnaires. The study will assess whether a structured prevention program integrated into regular training can improve biomechanical movement patterns and change-of-direction performance.