DIFFERENCE IN PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE BETWEEN YOUNG ELITE AND SUB-ELITE FOOTBALL PLAYERS

Authors

  • Elzan Bibić Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of East Sarajevo
  • Tatjana Ćeremidžić Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of East Sarajevo
  • Milomir Trivun Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of East Sarajevo
  • Jadranka Vlašić Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Zagreb
  • Valentin Barišić Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Zagreb

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the differences in speed, agility, and quickness between young elite and sub-elite football players. Participants were
youth football players from two different competition levels. The sub elite-level participants were from second league (n=48; 15.9 ± 1.0 years), while the elite-level participants were from the first league (n=42; Age=15.6 ± 1.5 years). Players were tested for speed (sprint 5,10, 20m), agility (Illinois test, change of direction test left and right, reactive agility) and repeated sprint ability. We found a statistically significant difference between two teams in all performance tests (p<0.05), favoring the elite team. This research highlights significant differences in physical performance between elite and sub-elite young football players, driven by a combination of factors including training intensity, coaching expertise, access to resources, and psychological attributes.

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Published

2026-03-30

Issue

Vol. 20 No. 1 (2025): SPORT I ZDRAVLJE

Section

Чланци