A - 30 Executive Function in Division-I Collegiate Athletes and Recreationally Active College Students

Abstract Objective High-level cognitive performance is important for navigating the complex environment of sport. The executive function domain may be particular importance because it focuses on flexible thinking and self-control. It unclear if high-level athletes exhibit similar compared to recreational athletes. Therefore, purpose this study was compare between male female Division-I collegiate recreationally active peers. Methods Thirty-seven (16 females, 21 males) 30 college students (19 11 participated. Participants completed Flanker Inhibitory Control Attention Test (FICA) Dimensional Change Card Sort (DCCS) from National Institute Health Toolbox Cognitive Battery a tablet assess flexibility attention inhibitory control, respectively. Demographically-corrected T-scores were used analysis. Two-way ANOVAs based group sex (p ≤ 0.05). Results There significant group-by-sex interaction FICA = 0.005). Female (50.68 ± 10.18) demonstrated higher scores (40.88 7.35; p 0.003, ES 1.06). Male (48.67 10.39) also exhibited greater 0.015, 0.83). no 0.84), effect 0.35), or 0.43) DCCS. Conclusions poorer which indicate decreased ability suppress motor responses caused by internal external distractions. significance these findings mitigating injury risk improving athletic should explored.