Volleyball Fundamentals: Techniques, Positions, and Rules

Volleyball

Volleyball was invented by William G. Morgan in 1895 in Massachusetts.

Team Composition

• Two teams of six players each (three forwards and three defenders).

Ball Specifications

• Weight: 260-280 grams
• Circumference: 65-67 cm
• Color: Typically red

Net Dimensions

• Width: 1 meter
• Height: 2.43 meters (men), 2.24 meters (women)

Scoring

• Sets are won by reaching 25 points with a two-point difference.
• Matches are typically best of five sets.
• If teams are tied after four sets, a fifth set is played to 15 points with a two-point difference.

Gameplay Fundamentals

The Serve

The serve initiates play. It involves sending the ball with speed and accuracy from behind the service line to the opponent's court. The purpose is to score a direct point or hinder the opponent's reception. It is an offensive move.

Lobby (Reception)

The lobby, or reception, is typically the first touch of the play (except for blocks) and is a defensive move. It involves cushioning the ball with the forearms and directing it to the setter. It is used to receive a serve or an attack, allowing control of a fast-moving ball.

Position:

• Back straight, knees bent, trunk semi-flexed, weight on the front of the foot.
• Arms extended, hands relaxed, fingers together, palms up.

Set (Pase Placement)

The set is the second offensive play. It is used to position the ball for an attack. The setter uses their hands to control the speed and direction of the ball, sending it with precision to the attacker.

Position:

• Hands on the ball, palms facing upward, forming a triangle.
• Elbows bent and slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
• Push the ball with the fingertips, extending the arms and arching the back for added power.

Spike (Remate)

The spike is the final offensive move, an attempt to score a point. The motion is similar to a kick in suspension, often involving a running approach and jump. The ball is hit with power to make it difficult to defend.

Position:

• Three-step approach with a small stop to convert horizontal energy into vertical.
• Arch the body, delay the hitting arm, elbow flexed, and lift the non-hitting arm above the shoulder.
• Hit the ball when it is falling but still above the net.
• Land properly within the court.

Blocking

Blocking is a defensive action to prevent the opponent's attack from scoring. It can be performed individually or collectively (2 or 3 players).

Position:

• Stand parallel to the net, about 50 cm away, feet slightly apart, torso straight, elbows bent.
• Move laterally with side steps, avoiding crossing feet.
• Jump when the attacker starts their arm swing.
• At maximum jump height, extend arms and fingers, reaching over the net.
• Incline arms towards the opponent's court while maintaining balance.
• Land without touching the net or the opponent's court.