VOLLEYBALL

Chelsea G. Valleja

WHAT IS VOLLEYBALL?
Volleyball is a team sport played between two teams of six players each,
separated by a net. The objective of the game is to score points by sending the ball
over the net and into the opposing team’s court while preventing them from
returning it successfully. Players use their hands, arms, and sometimes other body
parts to hit the ball, following a series of passes, sets, and spikes. A team can touch
the ball up to three times before sending it back over the net. Volleyball is played
both indoors and on the beach, with slight variations in rules. It requires teamwork,
communication, and quick reflexes, making it an exciting and fast-paced sport
enjoyed by people worldwide. It has since grown into a popular Olympic sport,
with millions of players worldwide. Professional volleyball matches are played at
high speeds, requiring athletes to have strength, agility, and strategic thinking.
Many schools and communities organize volleyball tournaments to promote
sportsmanship and physical fitness. Whether played competitively or for fun,
volleyball is a great way to stay active and build strong team bonds.
FOUNDER OF VOLLEYBALL

The founder of volleyball is William G.

Morgan, an American physical education
instructor. He invented the sport in 1895 while
working at the Young Men’s Christian
Association (YMCA) in Holyoke, Massachusetts,
USA. Morgan wanted to create a new game that
was less physically demanding than basketball but
still provided exercise and teamwork opportunities.
He originally called the game "Mintonette,"
inspired by badminton, but later changed the name
to Volleyball after noticing that players volleyed
the ball back and forth over the net. His invention
quickly gained popularity, and by 1964, volleyball had become an official sport in
the Olympic Games. Today, millions of people worldwide play volleyball, both
recreationally and competitively.

WHO INTRODUCED VOLLEYBALL IN THE PHILIPPINES?

Volleyball was introduced to the Philippines

in 1910 by Elwood S. Brown, who was the
Physical Director of the Young Men’s
Christian Association (YMCA) in the country.
The sport quickly gained popularity among
Filipinos, and they even contributed to the
development of the game. One significant
contribution was the introduction of the spike
and the set, which changed the way volleyball
was played globally. The Philippines played a
crucial role in shaping modern volleyball,
making it more dynamic and exciting.
EQUIPMENTS AND GEARS OF VOLLEYBALL

Volleyball
The main piece of equipment used in the game. It is lightweight
and made of leather or synthetic materials, designed to be durable
and easy to control. The ball's size and weight vary slightly
depending on whether it is used for indoor or beach volleyball.
Indoor volleyballs are heavier and have less air pressure, while beach
volleyballs are slightly larger and softer to adapt to outdoor
conditions.

The official volleyball ball must meet specific size, weight, and pressure requirements set by
governing bodies like FIVB (Fédération Internationale de Volleyball).

Measurements of a Standard Volleyball Ball:

●​ Circumference: 65–67 cm (25.6–26.4 inches)
●​ Weight: 260–280 grams (9.2–9.9 ounces)
●​ Internal Air Pressure: 0.30–0.325 kg/cm² (4.3–4.6 psi)
 Net
The net is placed in the middle of the court and separates the two
teams. It is made of strong mesh material, stretched tightly between
two poles. The height of the net depends on the category of play:

●​ Men’s official net height: 2.43 meters (7 feet 11 5/8 inches)

●​ Women’s official net height: 2.24 meters (7 feet 4 1/8 in)
●​ Junior and recreational games may have adjustable net
heights.

Volleyball Court
The playing area where the game takes place. An official volleyball court measures 18 meters
(59 feet) in length and 9 meters (29.5 feet) in width, divided into two equal halves. The court
includes boundary lines that determine whether the ball is in or out of play. The attack line,
located 3 meters (10 feet) from the net, marks the limit for back-row players attempting to spike
the ball. Beach volleyball courts are slightly smaller, measuring 16 meters (52.5 feet) by 8 meters
(26.25 feet).
Volleyball Shoes
Players wear specially designed shoes that provide good grip,
cushioning, and ankle support. Volleyball shoes have a gum
rubber sole that prevents slipping on indoor courts and allows
for quick movements. They are lightweight to help players jump
higher and move faster during the game.

Knee Pads
Essential for protecting players from knee injuries when
diving or falling on the court. Since volleyball involves a lot of
movement and quick defensive actions, knee pads absorb
impact and prevent bruises or scrapes. They are especially
useful for liberos and defensive specialists who frequently dive
for the ball.

Elbow Pads
Some players, particularly those who dive frequently, wear
elbow pads for additional protection. These pads prevent
injuries such as bruises and abrasions when making low saves
or defensive plays on hard indoor courts.

Jerseys and Shorts

The standard uniform worn by volleyball players. Jerseys are
made of breathable, lightweight material to keep players
comfortable during the game. Each team wears matching
uniforms, except for the libero, who wears a different-colored
jersey to distinguish their role as a defensive player. Volleyball
shorts are designed for flexibility, allowing players to move
freely during play.
Antenna
A thin, vertical rod attached to the net on each side. The antenna serves as a boundary marker,
ensuring that the ball is played within the correct area. If the ball touches or crosses outside the
antenna, it is considered out of bounds.

Ankle Braces
Many players wear ankle braces to prevent injuries,
especially those who frequently jump for spikes and blocks.
Ankle injuries are common in volleyball due to sudden
movements and landings, so braces provide extra support and
stability.

Volleyball Cart
A volleyball cart is a storage and transportation tool
used during training sessions and games to hold multiple
volleyballs. It helps coaches and players efficiently access
and retrieve balls, making practices more organized and
effective.
HOW MANY SETS ARE IN VOLLEYBALL?
The number of sets played in a match depends on the competition format. Unlike some other
sports with fixed game durations, volleyball is played in a best-of-five set format, meaning a
team must win three sets to claim victory.

SET FORMAT
●​ Total Sets in a Match – A full match consists of up to 5 sets. The match continues until
one team wins 3 sets. If one team wins the first three sets, the match ends early.
●​ Scoring in Regular Sets – The first four sets are played to 25 points. However, a team
must have a 2-point advantage to win the set. For example, if the score reaches 24-24,
play continues until one team leads by two points, such as 26-24 or 27-25.
●​ Fifth Set (Tiebreaker Set) – If both teams win two sets each, a deciding fifth set is
played. This set is played to 15 points, with a mandatory 2-point advantage to win. For
instance, if the score is 14-14, play continues until a team leads by two points, such as
16-14 or 17-15.
●​ No Maximum Points – Since a team must win by two points, there is no maximum score
limit. If a set is tied for an extended time (e.g., 30-30 or higher), it continues until one
team achieves the required two-point lead.

Importance of the Fifth Set

●​ The fifth set serves as a tiebreaker when both teams have won two sets each.
●​ It is shorter than the previous sets (only 15 points) to increase intensity and pressure.
●​ Teams switch court sides when one team reaches 8 points to ensure fairness.
●​ Winning the fifth set secures overall victory in the match.

Examples of Set Outcomes in Volleyball

●​ 3-0 victory – One team wins the first three sets, ending the match early.
●​ 3-1 victory – A team wins three sets while the opponent wins one.
●​ 3-2 victory – A full five-set match where the winning team claims the final set.
POSITIONS IN VOLLEYBALL

In volleyball, each team consists of six players on the court, each assigned a specific role. The
positions are divided into front-row and back-row players, with each position having distinct
responsibilities for offense, defense, and ball control. Understanding each position is essential for
teamwork and strategic gameplay.

1.​ Outside Hitter (Left-Side Hitter)

The outside hitter is one of the primary attackers and plays on the left front of the court.
They are responsible for spiking (hitting) the ball and scoring points from the left side of the net.
Outside hitters are involved in both offensive and defensive plays, meaning they must be skilled
in hitting, blocking, passing, and serving. They receive the ball often and need good ball control
to make effective plays. They must also block against the opponent’s right-side hitter.
✓ Key Skills: Powerful attacking, blocking, passing, and consistency in receiving serves.

2.​ Opposite Hitter (Right-Side Hitter)

The opposite hitter plays on the right front of the court and is the team's secondary
attacker.They are called "opposite" hitters because they play opposite the setter in the rotation.
Their main role is to hit from the right side of the court and block the opponent’s outside hitter.
Opposite hitters must have strong defensive skills since they often help in digging and passing in
the back row.
✓ Key Skills: Strong right-side attacks, blocking, and defensive digging.
3.​ Middle Blocker (Middle Hitter)
The middle blocker is positioned at the center of the front row and plays a crucial role in
blocking and quick attacks. They specialize in blocking opponent spikes, particularly from the
outside and opposite hitters. Middle blockers also perform quick attacks (fast spikes) to catch
opponents off guard. Since blocking is their primary role, they must have fast reaction time and
jumping ability. They help close the block with the outside and opposite hitters, making it harder
for the opposing team to score.
✓ Key Skills: Quick reactions, blocking, and fast-attacking abilities.

4.​ Setter
The setter is the team's playmaker, responsible for setting up attacks and creating scoring
opportunities. They receive the second ball after the pass (dig) and use their hands to deliver an
accurate set to the hitters. Setters must think quickly and make split-second decisions about
where to place the ball. They need good footwork, accuracy, and awareness to position
themselves correctly for every play. The setter usually plays in the back row but may come
forward to block if necessary.
✓ Key Skills: Quick decision-making, precise ball placement, and strong leadership.

5.​ Libero
The libero is a defensive specialist who wears a different-colored jersey to distinguish
them from other players. They focus on receiving serves, digging spikes, and making defensive
plays. Liberos cannot attack the ball above the net, serve (in most leagues), or rotate into the
front row. They must have quick reflexes, excellent passing skills, and strong court awareness.
Since the libero is not allowed to jump and spike, they mainly provide defensive stability and
improve the team’s ball control.
✓ Key Skills: Fast reflexes, exceptional passing, and defensive reliability.

6.​ Defensive Specialist

A defensive specialist (DS) is similar to a libero but can play in any position and is not
restricted by libero rules. They are often substituted for front-row players who may not be strong
in defense. Defensive specialists focus on passing, digging, and making controlled plays to keep
the ball in play. Unlike liberos, they can serve and attack from the back row if necessary. They
help reinforce the team’s defense, especially in critical moments when strong passing is required.
✓ Key Skills: Consistent passing, serve reception, and defensive awareness.
SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES IN VOLLEYBALL

A. Serving
Serving is the action that starts every rally. A good serve can put pressure on the opposing team
and create scoring opportunities.

✔ Underhand Serve – A beginner-friendly serve where the player swings their arm underhand
to hit the ball over the net.
✔ Overhand Serve – A more advanced serve where the player tosses the ball and hits it with an
open hand for better power and control.
✔ Jump Serve – A powerful serve where the player jumps and strikes the ball mid-air, adding
speed and spin.
✔ Float Serve – A serve with minimal spin, causing unpredictable movement, making it harder
to receive.
✔ Topspin Serve – A serve hit with topspin, causing the ball to dip quickly and making it
difficult to return.

B. Passing (Bump or Dig)

Passing is a defensive skill used to receive serves or spikes and set up an offensive play.

✔ Forearm Pass (Bump Pass) – The most common way to receive a ball, using the forearms to
direct the ball to the setter.
✔ Overhead Pass (Volley Pass) – A two-handed pass using the fingertips, typically used for
setting or when the ball is coming at a high angle.
✔ Dig – A defensive move where a player dives or stretches low to prevent the ball from hitting
the ground after a spike.
C. Setting
The setter is the playmaker, responsible for delivering accurate passes to hitters for an attack.

✔ Overhead Set – The most common set, using the fingertips to push the ball into the air for a
teammate to spike.
✔ Jump Set – A more advanced setting technique where the setter jumps before making the set,
allowing for faster offensive plays.
✔ Back Set – A deceptive technique where the setter pushes the ball backward instead of
forward, surprising the opponents.
✔ Quick Set – A low, fast set designed for middle blockers to spike quickly before the opposing
blockers react.

D. Attacking (Spiking or Hitting)

Attacking is the primary way to score points by hitting the ball forcefully over the net.

✔ Spike (Attack/Hit) – A powerful, downward hit aimed at the opponent’s court to score
points.
✔ Tip (Dink) – A soft touch over the net to trick defenders instead of a full spike.
✔ Roll Shot – A slower attack with an arcing trajectory, useful for placing the ball in open
spaces.
✔ Back Row Attack – When a back-row player jumps behind the attack line to spike the ball.

E. Blocking
Blocking is a defensive skill used to stop or deflect an opponent’s attack at the net.

✔ Single Block – When one player jumps to block a spike.

✔ Double Block – When two players work together to form a stronger defensive wall.
✔ Triple Block – When three players jump together for maximum coverage.
✔ Soft Block – A gentle block that slows down the ball instead of deflecting it hard.

F. Digging
Digging is a defensive move that prevents the ball from touching the ground after an opponent’s
spike.

✔ Pancake Dig – When a player extends one hand flat on the floor to let the ball bounce off
their palm.
✔ Dive – A technique where a player jumps and lands low to save the ball from hitting the floor.
✔ One-Hand Dig – Used when a player cannot get both hands under the ball and must use one
hand to keep it in play.
FOULS, PENALTIES, AND SCORING IN VOLLEYBALL
In volleyball, teams must follow specific rules to ensure fair play. Violating these rules can result
in fouls and penalties, giving the opposing team an advantage. Additionally, understanding the
scoring system is crucial for players and referees.

Fouls in Volleyball
A foul occurs when a player breaks a rule during play. Fouls can lead to the loss of a point or a
side-out (losing the right to serve).

A. Ball-Handling Fouls
●​ Double Contact – A player hits the ball twice in succession (except during a block).
●​ Lift (Carrying the Ball) – A player catches or holds the ball instead of hitting it cleanly.
●​ Illegal Hit – Any improper contact with the ball, such as striking it with an open palm
below the waist.

B. Net Violations
●​ Touching the Net – A player’s body or clothing touches the net while the ball is in play.
●​ Reaching Over the Net – A player interferes with the ball on the opponent’s side before
they have a chance to hit it.
●​ Under-the-Net Violation – A player steps or crosses completely under the net,
interfering with play.

C. Rotational and Positional Fouls

●​ Rotational Fault– A team serves out of order or players do not rotate properly.
●​ Illegal Substitution– Making an unapproved substitution or exceeding the limit.
●​ Overlapping – Players stand in the wrong positions before the ball is served.

D. Attack and Blocking Fouls

●​ Illegal Back-Row Attack – A back-row player jumps in front of the attack line to spike
the ball.
●​ Blocking a Serve – Players are not allowed to block or attack a serve directly over the
net.
●​ Overreaching on a Block – Blocking the ball before it has crossed the net from the
opponent’s side.

E. Serving Fouls
●​ Foot Fault – The server steps on or over the service line before making contact with the
ball.
●​ Serving Out of Turn – Serving when it’s not the player’s turn in the rotation.
 ●​ Ball Fails to Clear the Net – If the serve does not go over the net or lands out of bounds.
Penalties in Volleyball
A penalty is a consequence given to a team or player for violating rules. Penalties can affect the
game by awarding points to the opposing team or removing a player from the match.

A. Common Penalties
●​ Loss of Rally (Side-Out) – The opponent gains the right to serve when a team commits a
fault.
●​ Point Awarded to Opponent – If a team commits a foul, the opposing team
automatically scores a point.
●​ Yellow Card (Warning) – Given for minor unsportsmanlike behavior. A second yellow
card results in a red card.
●​ Red Card (Penalty Point or Ejection) – A player may be removed from the set or
match for serious misconduct.
●​ Disqualification (Expulsion) – If a player receives two red cards, they are ejected from
the game entirely.

Scoring System in Volleyball

A. Rally Scoring System

●​ Every Rally Scores a Point – A point is awarded on every serve, regardless of which
team served.
●​ Winning a Set – A team must score 25 points (with at least a 2-point lead) to win a set.
●​ Winning the Match – Matches are played in a best-of-three or best-of-five format.
●​ Fifth Set (Tiebreaker Set) – If a match reaches the final set, it is played to 15 points,
still requiring a 2-point lead.

B. Ways to Score Points

●​ Ace – A serve that lands in the opponent’s court without being touched or properly
returned.
●​ Kill – A spike that results in an immediate point.
●​ Block Point – A successful block that causes the ball to land in the opponent’s court.
●​ Opponent’s Error – A team earns a point when the opponent commits a foul (e.g., ball
out of bounds, net violation).
RULES AND REGULATIONS ON VOLLEYBALL
Volleyball is governed by a set of rules that ensure fair play, safety, and competitive balance.
These rules cover game structure, player positions, scoring, violations, and gameplay regulations.

1. Basic Rules of Volleyball

A. Team Composition and Rotation*
●​ Each team consists of six players on the court (three front-row and three back-row
players).
●​ A team is allowed up to six substitutes, depending on the competition rules.
●​ Players must rotate clockwise each time they win a rally and earn the right to serve.
●​ A player cannot serve twice in a row without rotation unless it is a continuation of their
turn.

B. Game Play and Ball Handling

●​ A team is allowed a maximum of three touches per possession (excluding blocks).
●​ A player **cannot hit the ball twice in a row, except after a block.
●​ The ball can be played with any part of the body, but it must not be held, lifted, or
carried.
●​ The ball must stay within the court boundaries to be considered in play.
●​ A team scores a point when the ball lands in the opponent’s court or when the opponent
commits a fault.

C. Serving Rules
●​ The server must stand behind the end line and serve the ball over the net.
●​ A serve must cross the net and land in the opponent’s courtto be valid.
●​ The serve cannot be blocked or attacked by the receiving team.
●​ If a player steps on or over the service line, it is a foot fault, and the opponent gets a
point.

2. Violations and Faults

A. Net and Line Violations
●​ Players cannot touch the net during play (except incidental contact that does not affect the
rally).
●​ A player cannot cross completely under the net and interfere with the opponent’s play.
●​ The ball must pass entirely within the net posts when crossing to the opponent’s side.

B. Illegal Hits
●​ Double Hit – A player cannot hit the ball twice in a row (except after a block).
●​ Lift or Carry – The ball must not be caught, thrown, or pushed.
 ●​ Back-Row Attack – A back-row player cannot jump and attack from in front of the
attack line unless they start behind it.

C. Rotational and Positional Faults

●​ Players must be in their correct positions before the serve is made.
●​ If players are out of order at the time of service, a rotation fault is called, and the
opponent gets a point.

3. Scoring and Match Format

A. Scoring System
●​ Volleyball uses the rally scoring system, meaning every rally results in a point for one
team.
●​ A set is won when a team reaches 25 points with at least a 2-point lead.
●​ If the game reaches the final deciding set (5th set in best-of-five matches), it is played to
15 points.
●​ If the score is tied at 24-24 (or 14-14 in the final set), play continues until one team leads
by 2 points.

B. Winning the Match

●​ A match is typically played in a best-of-three or best-of-five sets format.
●​ In best-of-three matches, the first team to win two sets wins the match.
●​ In best-of-five matches, the first team to win three sets wins the match.

4. Substitutions and Timeouts

●​ Each team is allowed a limited number of substitutions per set (varies by league).
●​ The libero is a specialized defensive player who can substitute freely but cannot attack or
serve (except in certain leagues).
●​ Each team is allowed two timeouts per set, each lasting 30 seconds.

5. Special Regulations
●​ Ball in Play – The ball is still in play if it touches the net during a rally, as long as it
crosses over to the opponent’s side.
●​ Antenna Rule – If the ball touches or crosses outside the antennas, it is considered out of
bounds.
●​ Replay Rule – If there is an interruption (e.g., external interference or unclear decision),
the rally is replayed.
●​ Sportsmanship – Players must show respect for opponents, officials, and teammates.
Unsportsmanlike conduct can result in a warning (yellow card), penalty (red card), or
disqualification.
.