The aim of this study was to examine the effects of soccer specific training on cardio vascular endurance, leg strength and playing ability among teenage boys. Forty male football players of American College Higher Secondary School, Madurai (Age 16.52±0.99: Height167.55±6.67: Weight 70.15±6.42: BMI 24.93±0.56) were randomly assigned into either Experimental group (Exp:N=20: Age 16.85±0.99: Height165.85±6.17: Weight 68.30±6.31: BMI 24.77±0.59) or Control group (Con:N=20: Age 16.41±1.01: Height169.25±6.87: Weight 72.00±6.12: BMI 25.09±0.49) . The experimental group participated in the soccer specific training program for 12 weeks (three sessions a week) whereas the control group maintained their regular routine activities.  All the subjects were evaluated before (pre) and after (post) the training period on the selected fitness related variables namely leg strength, cardiovascular efficiency and playing ability. The obtained data were statistically analyzed using ANCOVA to find out significant difference if any. The results show a significant improvement in cardio vascular endurance, leg strength and playing ability. In conclusion, the soccer training program resulted in positive changes in the selected variables among teen age boys.

Key words: Soccer specific training, Cardio vascular endurance, Leg strength, Playing ability Teenage boys