Exploring Anthropometric Correlates of Performance Across Playing Positions in Youth Male Water Polo

This study aimed to identify position-specific anthropometric differences in anthropometric status and to evaluate anthropometric predictors of performance level in youth male water polo players. The participants were youth male water polo players (n = 104, age: 17-19 years) from Croatia and Montenegro. In addition to playing position (goalkeeper, outer player, inner player/center) and performance level (high-level group vs. top-level group/members of National team), 21 anthropometric variables were included. Analysis of variance and discriminant canonical analyses were performed to define differences among playing positions in terms of anthropometric status. Logistic regressions with performance-level as a criterion (outcome) was performed to identify associations between anthropometric variables and outcome for each playing position. Centers who were taller (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.04--1.45), had lower subscapular skinfold (OR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.67--0.98), and had larger chest circumferences were more likely to be grouped in top-level group (OR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.03--1.31). The greater likelihood for being grouped into top-level group was evidenced for those outer players who were taller (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.04--1.41), had longer arms (OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.01--1.44), and had lower values of chest skinfold (OR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.32--0.83), triceps skinfold (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.66--0.98), and subscapular skinfold (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.47--0.89). Anthropometric variables were not significantly associated with performance level in goalkeepers. Talent, skill, and tactical awareness remains essential for all water polo players, but identified anthropometric attributes should be considered when selecting players for successful performance at each playing position.