Barin Sports Logo
Mobile menu icon

National Test Battery: KEY FINDINGS

Jan 15, 2026

Reading Time: 2 min.

< BACK

National Test Battery: KEY FINDINGS

In the summer of 2025, we became part of an important and exciting project. We were invited by the Bulgarian Football Union to act as a technology partner in one of their key initiatives - monitoring the development of young football players. The project, called the “National Test Battery,” aimed to conduct an in-depth analysis of the physical preparation of players in the U15 age group.

By assessing 331 players from 16 clubs, our goal was to provide an objective overview and constructive feedback on the current state of motor development in football academies in Bulgaria. The entire dataset was run through our own AI-driven algorithms and tools, which provided a higher level of cross-correlation among the parameters setting a new benchmark for Bulgarian youth football.

A few months later, the picture is now clear. With the right structure and the implementation of modern, science-based methods, progress is not only possible – it is expected.

Here are some of the key findings from the study:


1. Overall Physical Preparation
Average to below-average levels were observed across the tested group. High performance in key motor abilities is not reached consistently. The results show that while players demonstrate basic physical capacity, systematic achievement of high standards in key motor qualities is lacking.

2. Reactive Strength
The main deficit identified among the players is reactive strength. Drop jump results are significantly below high-performance benchmarks. This indicates difficulties in rapid force production and in executing explosive actions effectively.
3. Power and Sprint Performance
Power and sprint indicators are at moderate levels. More targeted preparation is needed to reach the optimal zone – high power with low fatigue.


4. Strength-Speed Profile
The players’ strength–speed profile is incomplete and unbalanced. Development is not sufficiently individualized, and in many cases, one physical quality is developed at the expense of another.

5. Movement Quality and Injury Prevention
Two key trends were identified. Knee joint symmetry is within acceptable limits. However, hip adduction asymmetry was observed, indicating an increased risk of injury and inefficient movement mechanics.

The National Test Battery provides a clear and objective overview of the current state of physical development in U15 players.

The results show solid foundational qualities, but also clearly defined areas that require focused improvement. This analysis provides youth academies with opportunities to design new training strategies that address the individual needs of each player, as identified by the testing battery.

Furthermore, this project allows for open and productive communication between Barin Sports, the Bulgarian Football Union, and the football practitioners about creating a sustainable environment for the development of the young athletes.

similar news

Beyond the Eye Test: Barin Sports CEO Vladimir Grozdanov Presents the Next Step in Coaching Preparation

Jan 21, 2026

Barin Sports Partners with Portuguese Telecom Leader NOS to Bring GPS Performance Tech to Clubs and Schools Across Portugal

Dec 10, 2025