EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SHOT VELOCITY AND GOAL-SCORING PERFORMANCE IN COMPETITIVE GOALBALL

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the relationships between shot velocity, isometric handgrip strength, flexibility, and goal-scoring performance in goalball athletes under real competitive conditions. The sample included male players (n = 15; age range: 19–44 years) who participated in the International Men’s Goalball Tournament “Vytautas the Great LIONS Club Cup” in Vilnius, Lithuania (May 24–26, 2019). Shot velocity was recorded live during matches using a RADAR1 device across three throwing types (low, medium, and thigh-high). Isometric grip strength was assessed using a Lafayette 78010 hand dynamometer, and flexibility was evaluated with the Sit-and-Reach test. Goal-scoring data were extracted from official match statistics. The results showed moderate, but statistically non-significant, positive correlations between shot velocity and goal-scoring performance across all throw types (r = 0.33–0.36), suggesting a potential trend where faster throws may be associated with increased offensive effectiveness. In contrast, isometric grip strength and flexibility demonstrated weak or negligible correlations with both shot speed and scoring, indicating limited predictive value for these isolated physical metrics. These findings suggest that technical execution and perceptual-motor coordination may play a more critical role in goalball offense than raw muscular strength or static flexibility. Coaches should prioritize integrated training approaches that develop throwing mechanics, decision-making under auditory cues, and functional mobility. Future research with larger and more diverse samples is recommended to further investigate the biomechanical and perceptual contributors to scoring performance in goalball.