Position-specific physical and motor characteristics of elite adolescent male Rugby Union players in the North-West province, South Africa

Abstract

This study explored the position- and age-specific physical characteristics of elite adolescent male Rugby Union (RU) players in the North-West province, South Africa. Participants were categorised into three age groups (U15, U16, and U18 years) and six positional groups: front rows, locks, loose forwards, halves, centres, and outside backs. Physical assessments included tests for explosive power, muscle strength, muscle endurance, sprint speed (10 m and 40 m), and aerobic endurance. A linear mixed model with Cohen’s d effect sizes was used to analyse positional and age-group differences. Forwards exhibited greater upper- and lower-body strength than backline players, while older players (U18) demonstrated superior strength compared to younger age groups. Position-specific differences were evident, with U18 players generally outperforming younger groups across most measures. However, U16 centres and outside backs displayed higher aerobic endurance than their U18 counterparts. These findings highlight the importance of age- and position-specific normative data in RU to inform training programmes that align with developmental and positional demands. The study also underscores the need for age- and sport-specific research to refine talent identification models and enhance long-term player development.