Volleyball is an exciting sport. The game of volleyball challenges an athlete's physical and mental capabilities. The following suggestions are given to help you learn the skills so that you will be able to perform those skills in a game.

1. Develop a positive attitude about your success. Come to each practice prepared to learn something new each day. Have high expectation about your being able to learn the skills and tactics of volleyball.

2. Exert maximum effort at all times, during practice as well as games. If you do not work hard at practice, you will not develop the teamwork and personal skills that game situations require. Remember, you will play the game the same way you practice!!

3. You should perform the skills at the fastest speed possible without sacrificing correct execution. Speed will increase naturally as your confidence in your abilities to make correct movements increases. It is important to note that volleyball skills require maximum speed at ball contact. But maximum speed for any skill is defined as the speed at which an individual can CORRECTLY execute a skill. This means that you must have your body movements under control. Balance and body control are essential elements that cannot be ignored.

4. You should strive to perfect your movements, postures, and ball contact skills during the beginning phase of learning. This stage is the foundation of all future learning. Avoid the temptation of thinking that you can fix problems later. It is much more difficult to correct errors after they have become habits.

5. Visualize a complete skill before performing it. Using imagery skills enables you to review the correct performance that you are trying to accomplish.

6. Become a student of the game. Volleyball is a complex game. In addition to understanding the rules, players need to understand the various skills and when to use those skills. There are a variety of different offenses and defenses and a variety of schemes, counters and tactics for each of those offenses and defenses. You can learn by watching, listening, and practicing. Make use of your spare time by reading books, watching games, and practicing the skills you use in volleyball.