Volleyball is a team sport that encourages sharing the ball for success. Each side has six players on the court at one time. There cannot be more than three hits, or ball touches, per side. Players can pass by putting their arms together and bumping the ball off the insides of their forearms. This action is called a “bump.” They can also “set” or “spike” the ball. A “set” is made with a light flick with the fingertips, at the level of the forehead. The player cannot hold the ball in this set position, only fling it in the air for another player to “spike” it. A “spike” is a hard, overhand hit that flies quickly onto the court on the other side of the net. Teams strive to have three players touch the ball before sending it over the net with the hope of scoring. The first player bumps the ball to the setter, who is near the net. The setter then sets the ball to the hitter, who spikes the ball over the net.
Individual plays are an essential element of volleyball. Serving starts the game in motion. To serve, a player stands at the back of the court on his or her side. The player serves the ball over the net to the opposing team. Although most beginners serve by striking the ball using an underhand motion, more advanced players can strike the ball overhead. An overhead serve is not easy to do at first, and a player can develop it over time. Tossing the ball high in the air is one way for the server to generate speed when approaching and striking the ball. This technique leads to the ball blasting off like a rocket over the net. If the ball crosses the back-court line, the serve does not count. The ball then goes to the other team. A player with a strong serve can show individual skill while scoring points for the team, especially if the other team is unable to receive the serve and put the ball in motion.
Another individual skill that helps the team is blocking. With blocking, a player stands at the net without touching it. If a player on the opposite team spikes the ball, the blocker can reach up above the net and block it from crossing the net. If successful, a block can cause a “side out,” where the ball goes to the blocker’s side. Often, two players will jump side to side with their arms up to create an even wider wall to block the ball.
Referees make sure that the rules of the game are being followed by all players. They watch the players carefully to check that the rules are followed and make a signal when the ball bounces inside or outside the line. Referees ensure the game is played correctly and fairly.
Succeeding at volleyball is a delicate balance of teamwork and individual skills. Players must focus on serving, setting, and spiking to cause a side out. Opposing players can jump up and attempt to block the ball from going over the net. Developing each of these skills will help tip the scales in your team’s favor. Now that you’ve been introduced to the rules, let’s play some volleyball!
