DIFFERENCES IN SOMATOTYPE COMPONENTS ACCORDING TO AGE IN KOSOVO FOOTBALL PLAYERS AGED 14–18 YEARS
Behar MALIQI, Labinot RAMADANI, Arsim QIRIQI, Naser RASHITI, Liridon BEKOLLI
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.
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