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Physical and Performance Characteristics of Successful High School Football Players

Department of Physical Education, Human Performance Laboratory, Auburn University at Montgomery, Montgomery

Jane Kirkpatrick, EdD

Department of Physical Education, Human Performance Laboratory, Auburn University at Montgomery, Montgomery

Michele Scharff-Olson, PhD

Department of Physical Education, Human Performance Laboratory, Auburn University at Montgomery, Montgomery

Daniel L. Blessing, PhD, FACSM

Health and Human Performance Department, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama

Nai Zhen Wang, MD

Department of Physical Education, Human Performance Laboratory, Auburn University at Montgomery, Montgomery

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the performance and physiologic characteristics of a "suc cessful" American high school football team, and to compare the present values with values reported for other groups of high school, college, and professional players. For descriptive purposes, players were divided into two groups: backs (N = 8) and linemen (N = 10). Maximal aerobic power (VO₂max) was determined from a maximal treadmill test, and body composition was evaluated by hydrostatic weighing. Maximal strength values were evaluated by one-repetition maximum bench press and squat test; the sit-and-reach test was used to measure flexibility. Speed and power were evaluated by a vertical jump and a 36.6-meter sprint. Results indicate that compared with other groups of col lege and professional players, as the level of compe tition increases so do height, weight, and fat-free weight of the players. Similar maximum oxygen consumption values were found for the present group when com pared with other groups of these players. From the strength and power standpoint, football players at all levels are becoming stronger. Incorporation of strength training programs has greatly improved strength and performance profiles of football players at all levels of competition.