Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare the neuromuscular fitness profiles of male and female NCAA Division III soccer players (D-III). A total of 53 subjects (29 male, 23 female) performed various neuromuscular fitness tests prior to the beginning of a competitive season. Neuromuscular fitness was quantified through single leg balance assessment, time to generate peak torque, peak knee flexion and extension torque, hamstring to quadriceps ratio, and flexibility tests. Test results revealed that females possessed significantly greater balance ability whereas males possessed increased peak knee extension and flexion torque. Hamstring to quadriceps ratio and flexibility results were not significantly different between genders. Results of time to peak torque tests were in variance with previous studies assessing Division I and professional soccer players. The results of the present study reveal gender differences in neuromuscular fitness in D-III soccer players and that the neuromuscular fitness may differ between D-III and D-I soccer players.