Subject: L Education (General)
Year: 2026
Type: Article
Type: NonPeerReviewed
Title: DIFFERENCES IN SOMATOTYPE COMPONENTS ACCORDING TO AGE IN KOSOVO FOOTBALL PLAYERS AGED 14–18 YEARS
Author: MALIQI, Behar
Author: RAMADANI, Labinot
Author: QIRIQI, Arsim
Author: RASHITI, Naser
Author: BEKOLLI, Liridon
Abstract: Somatotype is a key indicator of morphological profiles in adolescent athletes, reflecting both biological maturation and training adaptation. This study analyzed changes in endomorphy, mesomorphy, and ectomorphy in 200 Kosovo youth football players aged 14–18 years, divided into five age groups. Anthropometric measurements were performed using standardized protocols, and somatotype was assessed with the Carter and Heath method. One-way ANOVA and post hoc LSD tests identified age-related differences. Endomorphy remained stable across all age groups, suggesting effective regulation of body fat. Mesomorphy peaked at age 16, reflecting pubertal hormonal effects and cumulative football training, while ectomorphy was higher in younger players and decreased with age, indicating a shift toward a more muscular body structure. These findings underscore the importance of somatotype in monitoring athlete development and provide practical guidance for talent identification, individualized training, and long-term development strategies in youth football.
Publisher:
Relation: https://eprints.unite.edu.mk/2677/
Identifier: oai:eprints.unite.edu.mk:2677
Identifier: https://eprints.unite.edu.mk/2677/1/Sport%20and%20Health%202026-9-16.pdfIdentifier: MALIQI, Behar and RAMADANI, Labinot and QIRIQI, Arsim and RASHITI, Naser and BEKOLLI, Liridon (2026) DIFFERENCES IN SOMATOTYPE COMPONENTS ACCORDING TO AGE IN KOSOVO FOOTBALL PLAYERS AGED 14–18 YEARS. SPORT AND HEALTH International Journal of Sport Sciences and Health, 13 (27-28). pp. 9-16.
