Tracking blocks in volleyball is essential for understanding your team's defensive performance at the net. Whether you're a coach analyzing your middle blockers or a player tracking your own progress, knowing how to properly record block statistics can provide valuable insights into your game.
What is a Block in Volleyball?
A block occurs when a player at the net deflects or stops an opponent's attack, preventing the ball from crossing into their court. Blocks are one of the most exciting defensive plays in volleyball and can instantly shift momentum in a match.
There are two main types of blocks that get recorded in volleyball statistics:
- Solo Block (1.0 credit) - When a single player blocks the ball by themselves
- Assisted Block or Half Block (0.5 credit) - When two or more players block the ball together, each player receives 0.5 credit
Understanding Block Statistics
Solo Blocks
A solo block, also called a stuff block, happens when one player alone successfully blocks an opponent's attack. This is the most impactful type of block and earns the player a full 1.0 block credit in the statistics.
Solo blocks are relatively rare in competitive volleyball because attackers often aim for seams between blockers or hit around the block. When a player records a solo block, it typically indicates excellent reading of the setter, perfect timing, and strong blocking fundamentals.
Assisted Blocks (Half Blocks)
Assisted blocks, commonly called half blocks, occur when two or more players block the ball together. Each player involved receives 0.5 credit for the block. This is the most common type of block in volleyball, especially at higher levels of play.
For example, if a middle blocker and outside blocker team up to stuff an opponent's attack, both players would be credited with 0.5 blocks. If three players somehow manage to block together (which is rare), each would receive 0.33 credit, though most stat systems simplify this to 0.5 for any assisted block.
Total Blocks Calculation
A player's total blocks are calculated by adding their solo blocks plus their assisted blocks:
Total Blocks = Solo Blocks + (Assisted Blocks × 0.5)
For example, if a player has:
- 2 solo blocks
- 6 assisted blocks (half blocks)
Their total blocks would be: 2 + (6 × 0.5) = 2 + 3 = 5.0 total blocks
Other Block-Related Statistics
Block Touches
A block touch (also called a block assist or stuff) occurs when a player touches the ball during a block attempt, but the ball continues into play rather than being immediately stopped. Block touches are important because they can:
- Slow down the ball, making it easier for defenders to dig
- Change the trajectory of the attack
- Force the opponent to adjust their attack approach
While block touches don't count as full blocks, they're still valuable defensive plays that should be tracked separately.
Block Errors
A block error (or blocking fault) is recorded when a player commits a violation while attempting to block, such as:
- Touching the net while blocking
- Reaching over the net illegally (before the opponent's attack)
- Blocking a serve (which is illegal)
- Landing on or under the net in the opponent's court
Tracking block errors helps coaches identify technique issues and teaches players proper blocking mechanics.
How to Record Blocks During a Match
Real-Time Stat Tracking
When tracking blocks during a live match, follow these steps:
- Identify the type of block - Determine if it's a solo block or assisted block
- Record all players involved - For assisted blocks, make sure to credit every player who participated
- Note the context - Record the set number, score, and opponent being blocked (optional but helpful)
- Mark block touches separately - Don't confuse block touches with actual blocks
- Record any errors - Note blocking violations immediately
Using Digital Stat Tracking Tools
Modern volleyball stat tracking apps like VballStat make recording blocks simple and accurate. When using a digital tool:
- Select the player who made the block
- Choose whether it's a solo block (full credit) or half block (assisted)
- The system automatically calculates total blocks with proper weighting
- Track block touches and errors in separate categories
- View aggregated statistics across matches and seasons
Why Tracking Blocks Matters
For Coaches
Block statistics help coaches:
- Evaluate defensive performance - Identify which blockers are most effective
- Optimize lineups - Place stronger blockers against tougher opponents
- Improve technique - Use block error data to coach better mechanics
- Develop strategy - Analyze which blocking schemes work best
- Track player development - Monitor improvement over time
For Players
Individual players benefit from block tracking by:
- Understanding their defensive contribution to the team
- Setting personal improvement goals
- Identifying patterns in successful blocks
- Building confidence through measurable progress
- Creating highlight stats for recruiting or college applications
Common Mistakes in Recording Blocks
1. Not Distinguishing Solo vs. Assisted Blocks
The most common error is recording all blocks the same way without distinguishing between solo (1.0) and assisted (0.5) blocks. This leads to inflated statistics that don't accurately represent defensive performance.
2. Forgetting to Credit All Players in Assisted Blocks
When two or three players block together, make sure every player receives their 0.5 credit. It's easy to forget the outside blocker when focusing on the middle.
3. Confusing Block Touches with Blocks
A block touch is NOT the same as a block. If the ball continues in play after the touch, it's a block touch, not a completed block.
4. Not Recording Block Errors
Block errors are just as important as successful blocks. They reveal technique problems and areas for improvement.
Best Practices for Block Stat Tracking
- Be consistent - Use the same criteria for what counts as a block across all matches
- Record immediately - Don't wait until after the rally; mark blocks in real-time
- Use a reliable system - Whether paper or digital, stick with one method
- Double-check assisted blocks - Verify you've credited all players involved
- Review stats after each match - Look for patterns and anomalies
- Track over time - Compare performance across matches and seasons
Conclusion
Properly tracking blocks in volleyball provides crucial insights into defensive performance. By understanding the difference between solo blocks (1.0 credit) and assisted blocks (0.5 credit), and consistently recording block touches and errors, coaches and players can make data-driven decisions to improve their game.
Whether you're using a traditional stat sheet or a modern tracking app like VballStat, the key is consistency and accuracy. Start tracking blocks systematically, and you'll quickly see patterns emerge that help you develop stronger blockers and a more effective defensive strategy.
Ready to start tracking your team's blocks? Try VballStat's free volleyball stat tracking tool to record blocks, half blocks, block touches, and more with just a few taps during your next match.