Age differences among the Croatian female young pivots in the indicators of basic and handball-specific physical fitness

PURPOSE: The aim of the research was to determine and analyse differences among the Croatian female pivots of a younger-cadet, cadet and junior age (U14, U16, U18) in several basic and handball-specific physical fitness indicators. METHODS: The sample of 23 participants, female circle runners or pivots was drawn out of the population of members of the Croatian handball clubs recognized as promising players within their respective age group. Eighteen tests, defining four latent dimensions: agility, power, dynamic strength and flexibility, were chosen to assess basic and handball-specific motor abilities of the young pivots. Univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to establish global and individual differences among the age groups. RESULTS: The significant global age differences were established in three variables: at the level of p