Does relative age distribution influence the physical and anthropometric profiles of drafted under 18 Australian footballers? An investigation between the 2010 and 2013 seasons

This study examined if the relative birth distribution of drafted under 18 (U18) Australian football (AF) players influenced their physical and anthropometric profile. Birthdate, physical (vertical jump, agility, 20 m sprint, 20 m multistage fitness test) and anthropometric (standing height, body mass) data were obtained from U18 players drafted into the Australian Football League between 2010 to 2013 (n = 212). Birth distribution did not change across quartile (χ23 = 5.09, P > 0.05) or half year (χ21 = 2.50, P > 0.05). Physical and anthropometric profiles did not differ according to quartile or half year (P > 0.05). Relative birth distribution did not appear to influence draft success or physical/anthropometric profile. This study provides insight into a phenomenon not always observed in team sport