Game statistical system and criteria used by Spanish volleyball coaches

The aim of this paper was to study the game analysis used by Spanish volleyball coaches. The sample included 22 coaches from the first and second divisions of the men’s and women’s Spanish competition. The variables studied were: criteria used to evaluate technical and tactical actions, mathematical calculations used to analyse the data, reference values used, adaptations done in the statistical analysis, and situation in which performance is monitored. Descriptive and inferential analyses of the data were done. The use of game statistics is high in volleyball. It is used in practice, competition, opponent scouting, and post-analysis. Volleyball coaches use a category scale to monitor players’ and team’ actions based on the effect on the rally and/or the following game actions. Coaches make adaptations to this scale to fit their needs, perspective, goals, etc. This adaptation varies with regard to type of actions. The types of calculation most used for data analysis and establishing reference values are simple (total values and percentages), probably due to the high number of aspects to monitor or because coaches share the results of the monitoring with players. Coaches individualise their technical-tactical analysis to their needs in order to practice and compete properly.