A Short Guide to Volleyball Tactics
Volleyball tactics have a lot to do with the positioning of the players and taking advantage of their individual skills. That’s why one of the most important decisions made by a volleyball coach is where each person on the squad will play.
If you have several tall players, you will want them to be positioned up front. It is much easier for a tall person to spike a ball than a short person. So, make an effort to position those tall people where they can do the most good--spiking the volleyball into the opposite court.
Volleyball tactics include a mix of blockers and attackers to get the defense and offense moving. For instance, setters receive the ball and position it so that the right person can send it back over the net. The libero is a position added in 1999, and he or she is free to move around the court with fewer restrictions than players at other positions. This person is key to both keeping a ball alive when on the receiving end and getting it positioned for a good hit back over the net.
Setters also develop methods of receiving the ball and then setting it up for a hit to return it over the net. The hitters have to be able to move quickly plus they have to have the ability to spike the ball as well. In addition to getting the right players in the positions where they can use their strengths, you have to develop your own plan of attack.
One of the most popular volleyball tactics is to have a 6-2 formation. That means that two players set up the play and there are six attackers in the middle of the court. You also have to have a philosophy about serving. Serving is one of the most important skills in volleyball because when someone on your team is serving, you are totally in charge of what is happening on the court.
Make sure that your volleyball tactics include a serving strategy. And you need to have serving practice so that players can improve their strokes without having the big pressure of the other team’s defense. While it does take a lot of experience to improve at volleyball positions, having players practicing serving tactics can help them immensely when they are under pressure. Coaches should never underestimate the importance of serving.
While many passing tactics involve having the players cradle the ball across their arms when they pass, you can have better luck by taking the first ball with your hands. This often makes for a pass which is more controlled. You should also try to work on your footwork, especially if you are a setter. You should always have your left foot a little behind your right foot when you square up.
Always think in your head that every ball is going to be hit to you. That way you can stay ever vigilant and be prepared with what you are going to do no matter what situation comes up. One of the most common situations is being on the wrong foot just when the ball is in your grasp.
If you are new to volleyball, do not get discouraged with all of the things you have to remember. Volleyball tactics can come as you get better at using your hands and feet. A good tactic is to always keep two hands on the ball and to take quick steps to the net. That way you have more accuracy and you can beat your opponent to the net.
Volleyball is a very fast and exciting game. Crowds love it when there is a lot movement and a lot of spiking. Working on volleyball tactics will help you use your own skills and your team’s skills to outplay your opponent.