Strategies to Optimise U12 Players’ Basketball Games Based on Age-Specific Characteristics

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to provide a theoretical and practical framework based on the specialized literature for research, identification and application of optimal training strategies in the game of basketball in the U12 category in accordance with the specific particularities of the age. In the Under 12 category, the specific training must be carried out according to the particularities of age, the characteristics of each athlete and the knowledge accumulated by them during the training period. In this category, the rules are adapted to the psychomotor skills specific to the children's ages and modified so that all children have maximum chances of being involved in the game. The manifestation of motor qualities is not crystallized, as a result, children who do not show aptitudes will not be removed from the training groups. This stage is intended to attract, detect and select talented children with basketball skills. The U12 training program should be tailored to the morpho-functional needs of young athletes, considering their physical, mental, and social development. The level of preparation will determine their competitive performance.