THE IMPACT OF AGE AND BODY COMPOSITION ON PHYSICAL FITNESS AND SOCCER SKILLS AMONG PRE-PUBERTAL PLAYERS IN "MIXED-AGE" TEAMS

Purpose: The main objective of this research was to examine how age impacts physical fitness and soccer skills among players in mixed-age teams. Additionally, the study aimed to explore the connection between body fat percentage, BMI, and physical performance. Methods: The researchers selected 43 pre-pubertal children from an amateur soccer school and placed them in the "Under 10" or "Under 12" groups based on age. To evaluate the players, the researchers conducted tests such as the standing long jump, 20-meter sprint, shuttle dribble, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1 modified for Children (YYIR1C). Results: The results indicated that older and more experienced children performed better in physical and soccer-specific evaluations (p < 0.0001). Moreover, higher body fat levels harmed physical exertion and soccer-specific performance (p< 0.001). Conclusion: Therefore, mixed-age teams may not be the most effective solution for maximizing soccer school schedules, and nutritional guidance should be incorporated into soccer school programs.