Differences in anthropometric characteristics between young soccer players (U19) members of the best soccer clubs in Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kosovo

Purpose: The aim of this research was to determine the differences between the young soccer players (U19) in terms of anthropometric characteristics and body composition. We considered players of three the most successful clubs in three countries of the southern region of the Balkan Peninsula. Material: The first sub-sample of the subjects was consisted of 17 players of OFC Titograd from Montenegro of the average age 17.12 +/-.69. The second sub-sample was consisted of 14 players of FC Siroki Brijeg from Bosnia and Herzegovina of the average age of 18.14 +/-.86. The last sub-sample of the examinees was consisted of 15 players of FC Feronikeli from Kosovo of the average age 18.07 +/-.46. Anthropometric characteristics in the body composition were evaluated by a battery of 11 variables. The significance of the differences between the young soccer players in the anthropometric characteristics and variables for assessing body composition were determined by ANOVA and LSD Post Hoc test. Results: The young soccer players of the three mentioned clubs have statistically significant differences by the two variables that estimate the upper leg skinfold and fat percentage. The young soccer players of OFC Titograd are significantly better in variable upper leg skinfold than other players. The young soccer players of FC Feronikeli are significantly better in variable fat percentage than players of OFC Titograd. Conclusions: The results can be useful for coaches of other clubs for making a comparison of their soccer players with the young soccer players in this research.