A comparison of age, weight, height and body mass index of Zimbabwe league soccer players

Age, weight and height and body mass index (BMI) are very important attributes in soccer. The aim of this study was to determine the age, weight, height and BMI of Zimbabwe male league soccer players, and compare these variables with their regional (South African) and international (Croatian and North American) counterparts.Twenty-two (22) players (ages 21-33 years) volunteered to participate in the studyand were categorized into playing positions (PPs) defenders (n=7), midfielders (n=7) and forwards (n=7),as informed by the team coach. Ageof participants was computed from dates of births obtained from team records, while height and weight were determined using standard ISAK proptocols.. It is recommended form the study that Zimbabwe midfielders need to undergo weight improving training programs, that Zimbabwean defenders, midfielders and forwards need be selected on the basis of height, and that future similar studies include players from more Zimbabwean soccer teams and include the goal-keeping position for analysis. These recommendations are meant to make Zimbabwean soccer players compete more favorably against regional and international soccer teams.