How to Track Handball Statistics Effectively

Tracking statistics during a live handball match is challenging. The game moves fast, and you're also coaching, making substitutions, and communicating with players. Here's how to capture meaningful data without missing the action.

Start Simple

The biggest mistake new stat-trackers make is trying to record everything. In a typical 60-minute match, there might be 100+ events worth noting. If you're not experienced, you'll either miss events or lose track of what's happening on the court.

Start with just three things: goals, shots, and saves. These are the most impactful statistics and they're easy to identify.

Position Yourself Correctly

Where you sit matters. If you're tracking statistics while coaching, you're probably on the bench. This gives you a side view of the court, which is fine for most events.

If you have a dedicated stat-tracker (a parent, assistant, or team manager), they should sit at mid-court if possible, or behind one of the goals. This provides a better view of shot locations and goalkeeper movements.

Use a System That Works Courtside

Paper works, but it has limitations. You need to look down to write, which means missing action. Your notes can be hard to read later. And compiling everything after the match takes time.

A mobile app designed for live tracking solves these problems. Look for one that:

• Works with minimal taps (ideally one tap per event)
• Has large touch targets you can hit without looking
• Works offline (gym WiFi is notoriously unreliable)
• Auto-saves so you never lose data

Track Player Numbers, Not Names

During the match, record jersey numbers rather than player names. It's faster, and you can always match numbers to names later. Most stat-tracking systems let you set up your roster beforehand, so tapping "#7" automatically credits the right player.

Record Location When Possible

Shot location data is incredibly valuable. Knowing that your team scores 60% from the left wing but only 30% from the pivot tells you something important. An app with a court diagram makes this easy—just tap where the shot was taken.

Don't Chase Perfection

You will miss events. A fast break happens while you're recording the previous goal. Someone scores from a scramble and you're not sure who. That's okay.

Statistics are useful for identifying patterns, not for perfect accounting. If you capture 80% of the events accurately, you'll still have meaningful data. Over time, you'll get faster and miss less.

Review After the Match

Spend 5 minutes after each match reviewing your data while it's fresh. Fill in any gaps you remember. Note any events you're uncertain about. This small investment makes your statistics much more reliable.