Analysis of Physical Fitness Variables Among Nigerian University Football Players

A Case Study of University of Ilorin Football League

Abstract

This study was conducted to compare the physical fitness variables among University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) football league players. Ex-post facto research design was used in the study. The population of the study comprised all league players across the levels in the university. A sample of 42 participants was selected for the study from various playing positions (goalkeeper, defenders, midfielders and attackers). Five fitness variables were tested namely; cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular endurance, flexibility, agility and speed. Descriptive statistics using mean and standard deviation were used in answering the research question, with the norm ratings of each of the fitness variables measured, being used in grouping the participants into categories in which they belong, suitable for health and optimum performance. The data was analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) at 0.05 level of significance. The results of the findings birthed the conclusion that; strikers possess superior strength levels than players in other positions and midfielders had higher levels of agility in comparison with goalkeepers and defenders. It was recommended among others that: coaches and trainers should give adequate consideration to the fitness levels of football players in aiding effective identification and selection of athletes while also carrying out periodic tests on the fitness and performance variables of their players at routine intervals to ensure enhanced fitness.