6 Types Of Hits In Volleyball: Spike, Serve, Pass, Set, Block, Dig

In volleyball, players use various hits to send the ball over the net and into the opposing team’s court. Volleyball players use all types of hits when they play a game. All players must know how to spike, pass, set, block, dig, and serve since each one can use all these skills.

These hits require precision, timing, and technique, and they serve different purposes in the game. Let’s explore the primary types of volleyball shots:

Spike

Spike, also known as the attack, is one of the most exciting moves in volleyball. It’s all about delivering a powerful, aggressive hit that makes it challenging for the opposing team to defend. Spikes are typically performed by front-row players, often called “spikers” or “attackers.”

It’s one of the most visually striking moves in volleyball, and it’s used to score points directly. Here’s how it works:

Technique:

• The attacker takes a controlled approach, timing their steps and jumping to reach the highest point.
• The jump is explosive, allowing the attacker to meet the ball at its highest point.
• The arm swing is a forceful motion that connects with the ball with power and accuracy.
• The objective is to target open areas on the opposing team’s court, avoiding blockers and defenders.

Strategy:

• Aiming for open spaces and exploiting gaps in the opponent’s defense is the key.
• Varying the direction and speed of the spike can keep the protection guessing.
• Attacking the corners or aiming deep can be particularly effective.
• Avoid telegraphing the direction of the spike to keep the blockers and defenders off-balance.

Role:

• Spikers are typically the team’s primary offensive weapons.
• They need to be agile, powerful, and skilled at reading the defense.
• Timing and coordination with the setter are crucial for successful spikes.

Serve

Serve is how every rally begins. It’s your chance to apply immediate pressure to the opposing team. There are different serving techniques, and each has its unique advantages. Whether it’s an underhand serve, overhand serve, jump serve, or float serve, a well-executed serve can set the tone for the entire rally.

The serve is your way of starting the game. Different serving techniques can be used to achieve different outcomes. Here’s what you need to know:

Technique:

• The overhand serve involves tossing the ball into the air and striking it with an overhand motion.
• The jump serve is an advanced technique that involves hitting the ball mid-air after a jump, creating more power and spin.
• The float serve imparts minimal spin on the ball, causing it to move unpredictably in the air.
• The underhand serve is an essential technique where the server stands behind the service line and strikes the ball underhand.

Strategy:

• Strategic serving can target specific players or areas of the court to disrupt the opponent’s offense.
• Consistency and placement are crucial for underhand and overhand serves.
• Jump and float serve to add complexity and speed to the serve, making it harder for the receiver to control.

Role:

• Adequate serving can force the receiving team into poor passes, making it difficult to execute their offensive plays.
• It’s essential for servers to stay composed, especially under pressure.

Pass

Passing, often called bumping, is a fundamental skill in volleyball. Passers use their forearms to control the ball and send it to the setter for an effective attack. Precise passing is vital for effective offensive plays. Here’s what you need to know about passing:

Technique:

• Players assume a ready position, with knees slightly bent and arms extended in front of them.
• The ball should contact the forearms, creating a cushioned bounce that directs it to the setter.
• Passers aim for accuracy and consistency in their passes.

Strategy:

• Accurate passing sets up the setter for a good set, enabling the team to launch an effective attack.
• Communication is key. Passers should call “mine” or “yours” to avoid confusion and ensure that the correct player receives the ball.
• Passers must adapt to various situations, including receiving fast serves and attacks.

Role:

• Passers are typically players in the back row responsible for receiving the opponent’s serve.
• They play a critical role in the first contact of each rally.

Set

Set is a precise and crucial hit that sets the stage for a spike or another offensive move. It’s the setter’s responsibility to position the ball perfectly for the spiker to execute a robust and accurate attack.

The setter plays a pivotal role in orchestrating the team’s offense. Here’s some information about the set:

Technique:

• Setters use their fingertips to control the ball’s trajectory.
• The ball should be positioned precisely for the spiker to make a powerful and accurate attack.
• Consistency in setting height and location is essential for the team’s hitters.

Strategy:

• The setter must be aware of the positions and preferences of the team’s spikers.
• Quick sets, known as “one-sets” or “shoot sets,” can catch the opposing blockers off guard.
• Setting the ball accurately is crucial for the spiker to make quick decisions and adjust their approach.

Role:

• Setters are responsible for the second touch of each rally, setting up the attack for the team.
• They need excellent decision-making skills and should be skilled at reading the opponent’s defense.

Block

Blocking is a defensive hit used to halt the opponent’s attack. Additionally, It is one from the important types of hits in volleyball. It involves jumping at the net to intercept the spiked or attacked ball, sending it back into the opposing team’s court.

Successful blocking requires excellent timing and reading of the opponent’s plays. Here’s what you need to understand about blocking:

Technique:

• Middle blockers must time their jumps and reach over the net to intercept the ball.
• Hands should be angled to direct the ball back into the opponent’s court or deflect it to a teammate.
• Blockers should coordinate their movements to create an effective double block.

Strategy:

• Blocking can be used to target specific spikers or areas of the court.
• Effective blocking can frustrate the opponent’s attackers and disrupt their offense.
• Blockers need to read the opponent’s plays and anticipate the direction of the attack.

Role:

• Blockers are typically front-row players responsible for defending against spikes and attacks.
• Effective blocking can demoralize the opposing team and provide a significant advantage.

Dig

Digging is a defensive maneuver performed by players in the back row. It is one from the most important types of hits in volleyball. Additionally, it involves using the forearms or hands to receive an opponent’s attack, preventing the ball from hitting the ground. A successful dig, therefore, keeps the rally alive and allows the team to transition to offense.

Here’s some information about digging:

Technique:

• Diggers must be quick to react and position themselves to receive the attack.
• The forearms should create a platform for the ball to bounce off, allowing it to be controlled.
• Quick reflexes and practical passing skills are essential for successful digs.

Strategy:

• Digging aims to keep the rally alive and transition to offense.
• Diggers should anticipate the direction and power of the opponent’s attacks.
• Accurate digs make it easier for the setter to set up the crime.

Role:

• Diggers are typically players in the back row responsible for defending against the opponent’s attacks.
• A proficient dig can turn a defensive play into a scoring opportunity for the team.

FAQs

Conclusion

In summary, there are various types of hits in volleyball, each with its unique purpose and strategy whether aspiring to be a powerful attacker, a skilled setter, a formidable blocker, or a reliable passer, practice and a deep understanding of the game are your keys to success on the volleyball court.

So, take what you’ve learned here, get out on the court, and enjoy the thrilling world of volleyball. Mastering these hits will not only make you a better player but also enhance your appreciation of this fantastic sport. Good luck, and have fun!