Volleyball Tip
Parents’ Guide to Volleyball: Knowing the Positions
When your child is new to volleyball, it is important as a parent to understand the different positions on the court in order to help his or her succeed in the sport. Volleyball is an intense, fast-paced game with a lot of quick movements on the court. Each position has a certain role that is vital to helping the team succeed. Use this simple and easy guide to brush up on your knowledge of volleyball positions.
Outside Hitter:
The outside hitter, also known as the left-side hitter, is considered the focal point of the offense and typically performs most of the attack hits. An outside hitter must be able to have good back row skills and a good jumping ability because they sometimes will hit from the from and back row depending on where the set is coming from. Outside hitters will sometimes remain in the game for all rotations. On defense, they will receive the serve and block with the middle hitter. They are also considered one of the primary passers.
Opposite Hitter:
An opposite hitter, also know as a right-side hitter, is considered the most versatile because they can excel on offense and defense. They will not only hit the ball from the front and back row but also dig for quick attacks and set the ball if the setter is unable to do it. During defense, they will also help on blocks with the middle blocker.
Middle Blocker/Hitter:
The middle blocker tends to be the tallest person on the team. While on defense, they will cover the center area on the net and try to block any attack with the opposite and outside hitter. On offense, the middle hitter must be able to read the set and adjust. They will also act as a decoy in order to spread out the opposing blockers.
Setter:
The setter is the player who runs the team’s offense. They will try to receive the second touch and set it for the opposite or outside hitter. A setter needs to have strong communication skills and must be able to make quick decisions during a match. They need to be able to read the opposing defense and use controlled sets to plan attacks. A setter must also be ready to receive a serve, block, and dig a ball.
Libero:
The libero focuses on defense and will only play the back row. Since they typically receive the first touch, liberos must have great passing and defensive skills. The first touch needs to turn into a good pass to the setter. You will often find a libero in a different colored jersey and can come in and out of the game without counting against the team’s substitutions. A libero cannot block, set from the front, or attack the ball above the net.
Defensive Specialist:
A defensive specialist is another position that it’s main focus is defense. They usually come in for a player who does not have the skill to play the back row. Unlike a libero, a defensive specialist must make a substitution with the referee, and they can play the front row if needed. They are also able to play as a back-row hitter.
Use this helpful guide for your beginning volleyball player, and help them succeed in the sport they love! Check out more helpful volleyball tips and join us at a summer Nike Volleyball Camp!