Each volleyball skill has its own unique movement. It is important that players understand the related movement principles.

Footwork is a very important part of each skill and will determine the successful execution or failure of the skill. Floor defense, attack, and occasionally blocking require dramatic and specific footwork patterns. Serving, forearm passing, and overhead passing require less active movement but still demand precise execution

Fundamental footwork patterns specific to each skill are described, as part of the individual skill, during each practice. Further, the fundamentals of balance and the related body movement relative to each skill will also be detailed during practice.

Volleyball differs from other team-ball sports. To control the rebound angle effectively, the player must arrive at the point of contact and be set up in good pre-contact posture BEFORE the ball arrives.

MOVEMENT PRINCIPALS

Some general movement principles can be applied at all levels of volleyball skill.

1. Move through the ball to the target.
2. When moving, keep the body weight BETWEEN the feet.
3. When moving, keep the ball between your floor position and the net. EXCEPTION: The designated setter should be between the ball and the net.
4. Track the ball at all times with your eyes when moving.
5. Move into position to play the ball BEFORE it arrives.
6. Initiate controlled movement to the ball with the feet.

POSTURE PRINCIPLES

As stated before, volleyball is played in three different posture ranges. In the low range the player must dive, collapse, or roll on the floor to retrieve an opponent's attack. Middle range postures must be assumed to serve, forearm pass, and overhead pass effectively. High range postures are used when jumping to attack, block, and jump set.

The posture principles represent what the player is attempting to achieve in the course of playing the ball. The nature of the game forces players into off-balance, uncontrolled postures. This emphasizes the importance of players LEARNING to make controlled movements and postures when playing the game.

COACHING POINTS

1. In volleyball, a player must arrive at the point of contact BEFORE the ball arrives (except for the spike.)
2. The posture assumed prior to contact must be BALANCED, allowing the player to direct the ball to the target with control.
3. Be quick, but don't hurry.
4. Be effective and efficient. Practice the skills the same way you will perform the skills in a game.