Groundbreaking Project Launched to Study ACL Injury Prevention in English Women’s Super League

England striker Beth Mead was sidelined by an ACL injury, sparking a groundbreaking project in the English Women’s Super League to study and prevent such injuries.

The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) and FIFPRO have teamed up with Nike and Leeds Beckett University to provide funding for the three-year study. Research has shown that ACL injuries are more common in women than men, but there is limited understanding on how to reduce their occurrence in professional women footballers.

The project, known as “Project ACL,” will assess WSL clubs on various factors including facilities, staff numbers, travel, and playing schedules. FIFPRO’s Alex Culvin emphasized the importance of the project, stating that it responds to the needs of players and the industry as a whole.

Several top women’s football stars, including England captain Leah Williamson and Euro 2022 Golden Boot winner Beth Mead, have been sidelined by ACL injuries in recent years. The likes of Alexia Putellas, Sam Kerr, and Vivianne Miedema have also suffered similar setbacks.

England and Barcelona defender Lucy Bronze praised the initiative, highlighting the importance of fine-tuning research to understand the key factors and focus points in preventing ACL injuries. She stressed the need for clear information on risk reduction strategies beyond just changing equipment.

“Project ACL” aims to provide valuable insights into ACL injury prevention in women’s football, with the ultimate goal of safeguarding players and improving their overall well-being on the pitch.