University Research Partnership
Youth Sports Research
EPP is a practitioner partner in a landmark university programme studying the physical and cognitive development of youth footballers aged 10–16 across three cities — Birmingham, Manchester, and London.
195
Athletes across 3 cities
U10–16
Age range
3
Assessment waves per athlete
Study Design
Research Phases
01
Phase 1 — Observational
2026–27 season. Three assessment waves. Physical and cognitive testing. No intervention, no randomisation. Eligible athletes receive full performance reports.
Now Recruiting
02
Phase 1 Complete
Normative data published. ICC confirmed. Phase 2 RCT design finalised with university partner.
May 2027
03
Phase 2 — RCT
5-arm randomised controlled trial. AI vs Expert S&C programming. 650 athletes across 6 sites.
Sep 2027
04
Publication
Open-access findings. FA policy brief. Individual club development reports delivered to participating academies.
2028
What Athletes Get
Free Assessments
Participating athletes receive full Premier League-standard performance testing at no cost — three times across the season. All data belongs to the athlete and parent.
Physical Testing
- Sprint profiling — 10m, 20m, 40m splits
- Force-velocity profiling
- Countermovement & broad jump
- Change of direction — 505 & T-test
- Asymmetry screening
What You Receive
- Full written performance report
- Age-group normative comparisons
- Training recommendations
- BE ELITE dashboard access
- Progress tracking across all 3 waves
Common Questions
Is there any cost to participate?
No. Phase 1 assessment sessions are fully funded by the research programme. Athletes receive the same testing that EPP charges £65 per session for commercially — at no cost.
What is the time commitment?
Three sessions across the 2026–27 season — roughly one every four months. Each session is approximately 90 minutes at Alexander Stadium, Birmingham.
Who owns the data?
All performance data belongs to the athlete and parent. It will also be used anonymously in the research publication. You can withdraw consent at any time.
What age groups are eligible?
U10 through U16 youth footballers. Both male and female athletes. All ability levels — the study is not limited to academy players.
How do I register?
Complete the registration form below. We'll confirm eligibility and send session details directly. Phase 1 places are limited — early registration is recommended.