Abstract

The main objective of this study was to assess the fitness level of players aged 13 to 18, determining possible differences with respect to training category (under-14, under-16 and under-18) and the specific position (goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, forwards). 66 players were selected (with an age of 15.46 ± 1.83 years, a weight of 63.33 ± 9.51 kg, height of 171.44 ± 8.38 cm and prior competitive experience of 9.16 ± 1.93 years). We determined body composition (Inbody 720), hamstring flexibility (sit and reach test), countermovement jump and Abalakov test (MuscleLab 4000 testing system), and maximal oxygen consumption (multi-stage fitness test). Differences were found by specific position and training category in body composition and physical fitness (comparing under-14s with under-16s and under-18s) and differences were essentially found between the specific positions of under-16 defenders compared to their under-18 counterparts and between the specific position in the under-14 category versus the rest.