Decision making ability and thermoregulation in extreme environments during goal line official-like movement patterns

Abstract

Goal line officials (GLO) are exposed to extreme environmental conditions when employed to officiate in European cup competitions. Extreme environments have been shown previously to affect various facets of cognitive function. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of such environments on GLO. 13 male participants were exposed to 3 conditions, cold (-5 oC, 50% RH); temperate (18 oC, 50% RH); and hot (30 oC, 50% RH) for 90 minutes per condition, with a 15 minutes half time break after 45 minutes. Decision making ability was measured; using the Psyche Software Package, prior to each exposure (0 minutes), at the end of the first half (45 minutes), immediately after half time (45 minutes), and at the end of the second half (90 minutes). Exposure to cold conditions reduced positive stimuli responses (HIT scores) significantly when compared to hot conditions (P<0.05). Participants ability to track stimuli was also significantly reduced in cold conditions when compared to temperate and hot conditions (P<0.05). Reductions in decision making ability were coupled with reductions in physiological measures; cold exposure significantly reduced core temperature, skin temperature and thermal comfort when compared to temperate and hot conditions (P<0.05). The diminishment in GLO decision making ability during exposure to cold conditions, most notably the ability to respond positively to an infringement and the ability to track important stimuli, e.g. the football and goal line/player, are concerns which could negatively affect the outcome of a football match. Such findings should be considered by football’s governing bodies when assessing the implementation of goal line technology and/or the continued use of GLO.