Bio-banding in male under-15 and -16 ice hockey teams: A pilot study on players' and coaches' experiences.

We investigated players' and coaches' experiences and perceptions of bio-banding in U15 and U16 elite ice hockey teams. Secondarily, the distribution of maturity timing and the relationship between maturity status and fitness performance were examined. Forty-three male players (14.7 ± 0.6 years) participated. Maturity status and timing were estimated using the Khamis-Roche method and population reference data. Fitness tests were also performed. Perceptions were assessed using 5-point Likert-scale questionnaires and coach interviews. Players reported opportunities for new social contacts during bio-banding, which contradicted the coaches' initial concerns. Players moving to a less advanced (maturity status) bio-band perceived more responsibility and beneficial use of speed/size and reported more puck possession (Likert score 4.0/5). Players moving to a more advanced bio-band saw more technical/tactical challenges (4.3/5). Coaches recognized benefits such as individualizing training and improving selection procedures. U16 players showed earlier maturity timing compared to the Swedish reference population (P < 0.05); U15 players did not differ. Maturity status correlated with strength (r = 0.59), agility (r = -0.6), explosive power (r = 0.51), and endurance (r = 0.53) (all P < 0.01). We conclude that bio-banding offers benefits for players across the maturity timing spectrum and for coaches in several areas.