Positional Differences in Physical, Maturational, and Performance Characteristics of Recreational Football Players

Abstract

Introduction: Youth football presents considerable variation in players’ physical and maturational profiles, which may influence their performance and positional assignment on the field. Aim:To examine the physical, maturational, and performance characteristics of recreational youth football players across playing positions. Methodology: A total of 58 male players aged 12.9 ± 1.62 years participated in the study. Players were grouped according to their playing position (Center-Backs, Full-Backs, Center-Midfielders, Wide-Players, and Forwards). Anthropometric variables (height, body mass, and sitting height) were measured using standardized protocols, and biological maturation was assessed using maturity offset and predicted age at peak height velocity. Performance metrics included squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), and sprint times over 10 and 30 meters. Data were standardized using Z-scores to account for age-related differences, and statistical comparisons were made using ANOVA. Results:Center-Backs outperformed other positions in SJ and 30-meter sprint performance. In contrast, no positional differences were identified in CMJ or 10-meter sprint times. Conclusions:The findings suggest a maturity-related positional allocation bias, with more physically mature players being assigned to positions such as Center-Backs in recreational soccer