Project ACL: A Game-Changer in Women's Soccer Injury Prevention

In a groundbreaking initiative, Project ACL was launched on Tuesday, marking the beginning of a three-year study aimed at reducing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) knee injuries in women's soccer.

This collaborative effort involves FIFPro, England's Professional Footballers Association, Nike, and Leeds Beckett University.

FIFPro, the global union for professional football players representing over 65,000 players, spearheads the project.

Statistics reveal that ACL injuries are significantly more prevalent in women than men, with research indicating a two to six-times higher likelihood of occurrence in women.

Alarmingly, approximately two-thirds of ACL injuries in women's football occur without physical contact.

Despite increased professionalism in women's soccer and ongoing research, the incidence of ACL injuries remains unchanged.

Recognizing the need for more targeted research in professional women's football, Alex Culvin, FIFPro's head of strategy and research for women's football, emphasized the project's response to players' demands for greater understanding and injury prevention measures.

High-profile ACL injuries, particularly amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, have underscored the urgency of this initiative.

Project ACL's primary focus is to collaborate with the 12 clubs and around 300 players in the FA Women's Super League (FA WSL).

By analyzing current practices, identifying best practices, and offering solutions, the project aims to mitigate ACL injury risks effectively.

The study encompasses a comprehensive review of existing research, assessment of club resources and facilities, and monitoring of player workload, travel, and activity within the FA WSL.

Findings will be shared with football stakeholders worldwide, including FIFA and regional confederations.

Stacey Emmonds, a sports performance reader at Leeds Beckett University, emphasized Project ACL's holistic approach.

While previous research has predominantly focused on female-specific risk factors, the study will examine broader environmental influences on injury risk in professional women's football.

The initiative resonates with Fern Whelan, an executive at the Professional Footballers Association, who understands the challenges of ACL injuries firsthand.

She views ACL injury prevention as a critical player welfare issue.

Despite concerns raised by a U.K. parliamentary report regarding systemic gender inequalities in sports and the lack of understanding of women's health and physiological needs, Project ACL remains steadfast in its mission to address ACL injury risks in women's soccer.

Embracing a holistic approach, the project seeks to empower female athletes by identifying and mitigating modifiable risk factors.

As the project unfolds, it promises to revolutionize injury prevention strategies in women's soccer, paving the way for a safer and more equitable future.