@article{article_1558250, title={Stress Factors Among South Korean Youth Soccer Players: An Analysis of Club and Pro Youth Teams}, journal={International Journal of Disabilities Sports and Health Sciences}, volume={8}, pages={99–106}, year={2025}, DOI={10.33438/ijdshs.1558250}, author={Choi, Chul Soon and Cho, Il-young and Hong, Yong and Koo, Dohoon}, keywords={Youth Soccer, Stress Factors, Competitive Sports, Psychological Support, South Korea}, abstract={This study aimed to analyze stress factors among South Korean youth soccer players, focusing on differences between Pro Youth and Club Team players. Surveys were conducted with 284 players registered with the Korea Football Association in 2024, examining various stress dimensions including performance, training, interpersonal, and game-related stress factors. Statistical analyses included t-tests and ANOVA to determine differences across demographics. Results revealed that Pro Youth players experienced significantly higher levels of performance stress (M = 2.88, SD = 0.73, p = 0.012) and training stress (M = 2.75, SD = 0.72, p = 0.021) compared to Club Team players. Positional analysis indicated midfielders reported relatively high stress levels in performance stress (M = 2.86, SD = 0.67), influenced by their dual offensive and defensive responsibilities, though statistical significance with other positions was limited. Less experienced players (less than one year) showed elevated interpersonal stress (M = 2.60, SD = 0.68). These findings highlight the intense psychological demands placed on youth soccer players, particularly in highly competitive environments. Tailored stress management interventions, including role-specific support and psychological skills training, are recommended to mitigate these challenges and promote sustainable athlete development.}, number={1}, publisher={NDP Academic Publishing}