by Amy Alexander

Created on: April 07, 2009

Playing volleyball

In order to play great volleyball, it is important to be able to read the hitter and anticipate where the ball is going to be hit. Understanding what your opponent is trying to do is one of the most important advantages when preparing to make defensive plays.
And remember if the pass is tight to the net and the sitter is in front roll, be ready for a dump. If the pass is far from the net, be ready for the sitter to set the ball high. Always anticipate on the plays developing on the other side of the net.

Also be aware of the courts out-of-bounds lines, allowing the ball to hit the ground will gain a point for your side if the attack is played out of bounds.
Now lets look at a few plays that will help you as a defensive player. Lets start with the tomahawk, which is a method for passing a volleyball overhead. One thing to remember is the tomahawk is not for hard driven balls. The tomahawk is done by putting your hands together, bending your elbows, and making contact with the volleyball overhead.
There is also the pancake. A pancake is made by a player diving in the air, extending their their body out with the hand sliding on the ground to intercept the ball that is going to hit the floor.
A one handed poke can be a great way to pass deep balls or balls that are almost out of reach. Contact with the ball should be made as the arm is fully extended. A fully extended arm allows for a more solid ball contact.
One last thing the face dig is used when players don't have enough time to react and dig with their forearms. All players should practice digging balls hit to their face to avoid that dreaded impact to the face. And like I said earlier, the most important thing is to stay alert and aware of what is going to happen on both sides of the court at all times. Also remember that volleyball is a team game you have to work together with the rest of the team in order to be a great team. Have fun with it and practise to improve yourself and as a team, to improve your chances at winning.

Learn more about this author, Amy Alexander.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.