1) SERVING STRATEGIES

2) RULES FOR REACHING OVER THE NET

**************************************************

1) SERVING STRATEGIES

I love playing defense in volleyball. I think making a great defensive play leading to a set then kill is one of the most exciting plays in volleyball.

As much as I enjoy playing defense, I just might be even more passionate about serving.

I think serving is not seen as important a skill compared to other volleyball skills. Many coaches and players think of serving as just the way the ball is put into play. A lot of coaches and players don't see the advantage of having the ball to serve. Serving is the only skill in volleyball where you have complete control over how well you execute it. Serving should be seen as an opportunity to make your opponent do what you want them to do.

Serving is much different than setting because the set is often dictated by the pass. Then also when hitting, how you hit is influenced by both the pass and set. With a good serve you can force your opponent to do what they don't want to which will better your chances of winning the rally.

It is important to learn different serving skills such as float serves and top spin. All players should develop these skills along with the ability read the serve receive and know where on the court to place the ball that will give your team the best advantage.

Visit my new serving strategies page.

--------------------------------------------------

2) RULES FOR PLAYING THE BALL AT THE NET

You probably already know it is illegal to attack the ball when it is completely on the other side of the net.

However, there are 4 situations where a player can legally block the ball on the other side of the net. Do you know all 4?

1. Reaching over and blocking is legal after 3 team contacts by your opponent.

2. If, in the referee's judgment the player is attacking the ball, the blocker can reach over and block.

3. Reaching over and blocking is legal after a 1st or 2nd contact, if, in the referee's judgement no teammate will be able to make a play because the ball is going over the net.

4. Reaching over and blocking is legal, if, after a 1st or 2nd contact, if, in the referee's judgement no teammate will be able to make a play even though the ball isn't going to go over the net.

Follow the link for more on volleyball rules and game situations for attacking or blocking at the net.