摘要：The objective of this research was to describe anthropometric characteristics and somatotype of young water polo players involved in two intensity levels of training – seasonal and year-round and compare their differences. Study was conducted on 12 year old water polo players (N=30) from three water polo clubs in Biograd area (seasonal training) and on water polo players (N=29) from two clubs in Split (year-round training). Total of 14 morphological variables necessary for determination of somatotype characteristics were measured. In addition, body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (BF%) and sum of seven skinfolds (Σ7KN) were calculated. The somatotype components of the individual subjects were calculated and water polo players were grouped in one of the 13 somatotype categories. There was a statistically significant difference in all anthropometric variables measured, except in calf skinfold. Higher values of all anthropometric variables, BMI, BF% and Σ7KN were recorded for water polo players from Split. Mean somatotype of water polo players from Biograd area was 2.85-3.39-3.28, while water polo players from Split had a mean somatotype of 3.87-4.46-2.74. Total of 8 out of 13 somatotype categories were recorded for young water polo players from Biograd area, while 9 categories were determined for players in Split. The results of this study indicate that certain level of selection in water polo occurs already at 12 years of age.
