Research Laboratory in Science and Technology of Physical and Sports Activities, Youth and Leisure at the National Higher Institute of Popular Education and Sport at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, Senegal
This study analyses the anthropometric characteristics of young Senegalese handball players (U18 and U20 categories) in order to determine the extent to which their morphological profile is compatible with the demands of high-level handball. Based on measurements of height, weight, body mass index (BMI), wingspan and hand span, the data collected from a representative sample were compared with data from young international handball players who participated in the 10thWorld Youth Handball Championship (U19) in Croatia in 2023. The results show that while the height and wingspan of Senegalese players are broadly in line with African and European benchmarks, their weight, BMI and hand span are lower. The study concludes that a morpho-functional approach is needed in the detection and training of young handball players.