INFLUENCING FACTORS IN PRACTICING AND DEVELOPMENT OF HANDBALL IN ROMANIA

The popularity of a sport in general, and handball in particular, is influenced by a variety of interconnected factors that can vary significantly from one region to another such as: Economic factors, Sports infrastructure, Government and sports organization support, Media and technology, Sports culture and tradition, Sports performance, Accessibility and participation, Social and community impact. The present research is of two types, quantitative and qualitative, based on statistical analysis of available data. The design of the study is descriptive and explanatory, with the aim of identifying the geographical distribution of handball clubs and determining the factors that influence the popularity of this sport in Romania. As a study region, we chose Romania because of its strong handball tradition and outstanding international successes. The popularity of handball in Romania is influenced by a variety of economic, social and institutional factors. While there is notable development in certain regions, significant inequalities remain that require better targeted public policies and strategic investments. The promotion of handball as a national sport, supported both by adequate infrastructure and by educational and regional development policies, could contribute to increase the popularity and performances of this sport at the national level.