Relationship Between Tests of Physical Qualities, Team Selection, and Physical Match Performance in Semiprofessional Rugby League Players

Thirty-two rugby league players (mean age 24 years) demonstrated significant performance differences in strength and endurance tests based on team selection.

• Selected players exhibited better results in upper-body and lower-body strength tests compared to nonselected players.
• Higher 3 repetition maximum (3RM) squat performances were associated with greater total distances covered during matches.
• There were significant correlations between 3RM squat performance and distances covered at both low and high speeds.
• Players with superior 3RM squat performances also completed more repeated high-intensity efforts during competition.
• These results indicate that lower-body strength, along with upper-body strength and endurance, may be critical for selection in semiprofessional rugby league.

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