Marko Boskovic; Kosta Goranovic; Marko Joksimovic; Raul Ioan Muntean & Stefanica Valentina
The aim of this study was to analyze and compare body height and arm span among youth athletes in soccer, basketball, and volleyball, emphasizing their practical significance in player selection, positioning, and training process adaptation. The sample consisted of 46 elite youth athletes divided into three groups: soccer players (n = 21), volleyball players (n = 9), and basketball players (n = 16). Anthropometric measurements were collected using standardized ISAK protocols and analyzed through ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc testing. The results indicated statistically significant differences in body height and arm span between soccer players and athletes from the other two groups (p < .001). Volleyball and basketball players were significantly taller and had greater arm spans compared to soccer players. These differences reflect the specific morphological demands of each sport—vertical sports such as basketball and volleyball favor increased height and reach, whereas soccer emphasizes agility and a lower center of gravity. The findings highlight the importance of incorporating anthropometric profiling into early talent identification and individualized training planning. Coaches and strength and conditioning professionals can utilize these data to optimize player development and improve selection criteria. Furthermore, understanding these morphological distinctions can assist in directing young athletes toward sports that best align with their physical attributes. This research contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the relevance of sport-specific morphological profiling as a foundation for long-term success in sport.
KEY WORDS: Morphological characteristics; Talent identification; Growth and development; Physical performance; Team sports.
BOSKOVIC, M.; GORANOVIC, K.; JOKSIMOVIC, M.; MUNTEAN, R. I. & VALENTINA, S. The importance of body height and arm span in the development of young athletes: A comparative analysis of soccer, basketball, and volleyball. Int. J. Morphol., 43(5):1483-1488, 2025.
