Abstract

FOLGADO, H.A.; CAIXINHA, P.F.; SAMPAIO, J.  and  MACAS, V.. Relative age effects among youth soccer players according to playing positions. Rev. Port. Cien. Desp. [online]. 2006, vol.6, n.3, pp.349-355. ISSN 1645-0523.

This study analysed the distribution of the birthdates from soccer players according to each player’s age-group and specific position on the field. The players from the Lisbon Soccer Association (n=188) were divided into their age-groups during the 2004/2005 season: Under 8s (n=26), Under 11s (n=39), Under 13s (n=43), Under 15s (n=39), Under 18s (n=21) and the Reserve Team (n=20) and according to their specific positions on the field: Goalkeepers (n=24), Defenders (n=51), Midfielders (n=70) and Forwards (n=43). Each player’s birth date was analysed and classified by trimesters. The distribution of all the players and of each group (in level and position) was compared through Chi-Square. Significant differences were found in the distribution of the total group, in the Under 11s, Under 13s and Under 15s levels, and among Defenders and Midfielders, revealing that the players from these groups tend to be born near the beginning of the selection year. These results suggest that the time of year when a player is born has some influence on the identification and selection of talented young players.

Keywords : soccer; chronological age; talent; youth.

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