Lesson 1: Origin and Development of volleyball

What is Volleyball?

Volleyball is a team sport played on a rectangular court divided by a net. The objective is to score
points by sending a ball over the net and into the opponent's court in such a way that they cannot
return it. It involves six players on each side, each trying to use their hands to control and pass the
ball, with the main aim being to ground the ball on the opposing team's side of the court. It's a fast-
paced game requiring teamwork, skill in ball control, and strategic positioning.

History of Volleyball

Volleyball was invented in 1895 by William G. Morgan, a YMCA

instructor in Holyoke, Massachusetts, USA. Seeking a less strenuous alternative to
basketball for older members, Morgan blended elements of basketball, baseball,
tennis, and handball to create a new game initially called "Mintonette." The first
demonstration match took place on February 9, 1896.

The game quickly gained popularity within YMCA programs across the United States and soon spread
internationally. In 1900, the game's name was changed to "Volleyball" due to the nature of volleying
the ball back and forth over the net.

The Federation Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) was founded in 1947 as the international
governing body for the sport. This marked a significant step towards standardizing rules and
organizing international competitions. Volleyball was introduced to the Olympic Games in 1964 (for
men) and in 1964 (for women), further boosting its global recognition.

Since its inception, volleyball has evolved significantly in terms of rules, techniques, and gameplay
strategies. Beach volleyball emerged as a variant played on sand courts, gaining popularity
particularly after being added to the Olympics in 1996.
Today, volleyball is played and enjoyed by millions worldwide, both recreationally and competitively.
It continues to evolve with innovations in equipment, training methods, and tactics, maintaining its
status as one of the most dynamic and widely played team sports globally.

Evolution of Volleyball

1895: Creation of the game.

1896: The first exhibition match of volleyball is played at Springfield College

1900: A special ball was designed for the sport.

1910: It was introduce in the Philippines.

1916: In the Philippines, an offensive style of passing the ball in a high trajectory to be struck by
another player (the set and spike) were introduced.

1917: The game was changed from 21 to 15 points.

1920: Three hits per side and back row attack rules were instituted.

1922: The first YMCA national championships were held in Brooklyn, NY. 27 teams from 11 states
were represented.

1934: The approval and recognition of national volleyball referees.

1937: At the AAU convention in Boston, action was taken to recognize the U.S. Volleyball Association
as the official National Governing Body (NGB) in the U.S.

1947: The Federation Internationale De Volley-Ball (FIVB) was founded.

1964: Volleyball was introduced to the Olympic Games in Tokyo.

1989: The FIVB Sports Aid Program was created.

1990: The World League was created.

Lesson 2: Equipment and Facilities in Volleyball

Sporting equipment refers to the gear, tools, and accessories used by athletes and sports
participants to play and compete in various sports and physical activities. The type of equipment
needed depends on the specific sport or activity and can range from simple items like balls and bats
to more complex gear such as protective padding, uniforms, and specialized footwear. Sporting
equipment is designed to enhance performance, ensure safety, and facilitate fair competition.
Sporting equipment is essential not only for the practical aspects of playing sports but also for safety,
performance enhancement, and ensuring fair play. Advances in materials and technology continue
to drive innovation in sporting equipment, improving durability, comfort, and performance for
athletes of all levels.
Equipments and Facilities in Volleyball

In volleyball, the playing area is a rectangular court that is divided into two equal halves by a net.
Here are the key components and dimensions of a volleyball court:

1.Playing Area Dimensions: The standard indoor volleyball court measures 18 meters (59 feet) in
length and 9 meters (29.5 feet) in width for both men's and women's competitions. The court is
symmetrical about the center line.

2. Net: The net runs vertically across the center of the court, dividing it into two equal halves. It is
suspended over the center line and is 1 meter (3 feet 3 inches) wide. The height of the net varies for
men's and women's play:

- For men's volleyball, the top of the net is set at a height of 2.43 meters (7 feet 11 5/8 inches).

- For women's volleyball, the top of the net is set at a height of 2.24 meters (7 feet 4 1/8 inches).
3. Center Line: The center line divides the court into two equal halves and extends underneath the
net. It is marked at the midpoint of the width of the court.

4. Attack Lines: Also known as the "3-meter line" or "10-foot line," these lines are drawn 3 meters (9
feet 10 inches) away from the net on each side of the center line. These lines delineate the front and
back zones of the court and regulate where players can attack the ball from during gameplay.

5. Antenna: Antennas are vertical rods placed on each side of the net, extending 80 cm (31.5 inches)
above the net. They are used to define the outer boundaries of the court for the purpose of
determining whether a ball is in or out of play.

6. Boundary Lines: The outer edges of the court are marked by boundary lines. These lines define
the playable area of the court and are used to determine whether the ball is in or out of bounds.

7. Substitution Zones: These are designated areas along the sideline where players can enter and
exit the court during substitutions. They are typically marked with a line or area near the center line.

8.) Post : The posts supporting the net are positioned at a distance of 0.50-1.00 m outside the side
lines. These posts are 2.55 m high and preferably adjustable.
9.) Ball : A standard volleyball is spherical and measures about 65-67 cm (25.6-26.4 inches) in
circumference and weighs 260-280 grams (9.2-9.9 ounces). Volleyballs are typically made of
synthetic leather or composite leather. These materials are chosen for their durability, grip, and
ability to maintain shape and consistency during play. The cover of the ball is often textured to
provide better grip and control. Volleyballs are traditionally white or a light color for indoor play, to
ensure visibility under artificial lighting. The pressure of a volleyball is regulated to maintain
consistent performance. The ball is inflated to a pressure of 0.30-0.325 kg/cm² (4.26-4.61 psi) at sea
level, ensuring it is firm enough for good ball control and playability. Volleyballs used in competitive
play must meet specific standards set by the Federation Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) and other
governing bodies. These standards ensure consistency across tournaments and leagues worldwide.

Lesson 3: Basic Skills in Volleyball

In volleyball, players need to master several fundamental skills to effectively participate in the game.
These skills are essential for both offensive and defensive play and include:

1. Serving : Serving starts each rally and can be done using various techniques such as the overhand
serve, underhand serve, jump serve, and float serve. The goal is to send the ball over the net to the
opponent's court with speed, accuracy, and unpredictability.

• Underhand Serve:

An underhand serve is a type of serve in which the player holds the ball in one hand, swings the
other in an arc motion below the waist and strikes the ball from the bottom with a fist to put it in
play. In an underhand serve, the player does not toss the ball up in the air, as in other serve
attempts.
• Overhead Serve :

An overhand serve in volleyball is a serve in which the player tosses the ball with one hand and
strikes it in the air above their head with the other hand.

• Floater Serve:

A float serve is one that has no movement causing the ball to move very unpredictably. The
knuckling action of the ball can cause it to move left, right, or even drop instantly. The way you hit
the ball is how you get this action on the ball.

• Top Spin Serve:

A topspin serve is the most common competitive serve as it is delivered with a good pace and spin.
Like in the name, the topspin of the ball will cause it to dive down towards the ground quickly once it
clears the net. This serve can be very effective aimed at the back.

• Jump Serve:

The jump serve is a type of serve where the serving player increases power and serve height by
jumping to hit the ball. The extra motion generated in a jump serve allows the server to put
additional power on the ball and this can make the serve very difficult to handle for the receiving
team.
• Curve Serve:

This type of ball flight can be much effective outdoors in windy conditions. The approach of this shot
is just like a top spin serve until the moment of impact and then hit the ball either left or right of
center. The ball will curve in the direction in which it is hit.

2. Passing : A volleyball pass is the end of the opposing team's attack. Also, passing means the
beginning of your team's volleyball attack. After resisting an attack of the opponents, volleyball
players should aim to make a successful pass and send a ball to one of their teammates on the court.
Initially, a pass goes over the net.

• Forearm Pass:

The forearm pass, commonly known as the bump, is a fundamental skill used primarily for receiving
serves and passing the ball to set up an attack. The forearm pass is essential for effective ball control
and is a fundamental skill for all volleyball players, from beginners to advanced levels. With practice,
players can improve their accuracy, consistency, and ability to contribute to team success both
defensively and in setting up offensive plays.
• Overhead Pass:

An overhead pass in volleyball, often referred to as a "set," is a fundamental skill used to accurately
deliver the ball to a teammate, typically in preparation for an attack. Here’s a breakdown of how to
perform an effective overhead pass:

1. Positioning:

- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.

- Position your body under the ball, facing the target.

2. Hand and Arm Placement:

- Raise your hands above your forehead with fingers spread wide.

- Form a triangle with your thumbs and index fingers, creating a window through which you can
see the ball.

- Keep your elbows slightly bent.

3. Contact with the Ball:

- As the ball approaches, bend your knees slightly to absorb the impact.

- Use your fingers (not your palms) to make contact with the ball.

- Extend your arms and legs simultaneously to push the ball upwards and towards your intended
target.
4. Follow-Through:

- Extend your arms fully in the direction of the pass.

- Your fingers should finish pointing towards the target, ensuring a smooth and controlled release.

5. Body Movement:

- Engage your core to maintain balance.

- Follow the ball with your eyes, ensuring precise direction and control.

6. Practice Drills:

- Wall Sets: Practice setting against a wall to improve accuracy and control.

- Partner Sets: Work with a teammate to practice timing and consistency.

- Setting to Target: Place a target on the floor or use a hoop to practice hitting specific spots.

Remember, the key to a successful overhead pass is consistency, control, and precision. Regular
practice will help develop the necessary skills to execute this fundamental volleyball technique
effectively.

3. Blocking :

Blocking in volleyball is a defensive skill used to prevent the opposing team’s attack from crossing
the net and scoring points. It involves players at the net jumping to intercept the ball as it comes
over from the opposing side. Here’s a detailed explanation of blocking:

1. Positioning:

- Players who usually block are positioned in the front row.

- They align themselves with the attacker they intend to block, often adjusting based on the setter’s
position and the opposing team’s attack pattern.

2. Read and Anticipate:

- Watch the setter and the hitter closely to anticipate the direction and timing of the attack.

- Use peripheral vision to monitor the ball’s trajectory and the hitter’s approach.

3. Stance:

- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent.

 - Hands should be up, ready to move quickly.

4. Jumping:

- Time your jump to coincide with the hitter’s attack, aiming to reach the peak of your jump as the
ball is struck.

- Jump straight up rather than forward to avoid touching the net.

5. Hand and Arm Positioning:

- Extend your arms fully above the net, with fingers spread wide to cover as much area as possible.

- Angle your hands slightly downward to direct the ball back into the opponent’s court.

6. Communication:

- Communicate with teammates to cover different areas of the net effectively.

- Use verbal cues to indicate who is going for the block and to coordinate movements.

7. Follow-Through:

- After making contact with the ball, prepare to land safely by bending your knees.

- Quickly recover and be ready for the next play, whether it involves blocking again or transitioning
to another position.

8. Types of Blocks:

- Solo Block: When a single player blocks the ball.

 - Double Block: When two players work together to block the ball.

- Triple Block: When three players combine their efforts to form a strong block against a
particularly powerful attack.

Blocking is a crucial aspect of volleyball as it can significantly disrupt the opposing team’s offensive
strategies and directly contribute to scoring points by deflecting the ball back into their court.
Effective blocking requires good timing, strong communication, and precise positioning. Regular
practice and coordination with teammates enhance blocking effectiveness.

4.) Attacking :

Attacking in volleyball, often referred to as spiking, is an offensive action aimed at scoring points by
sending the ball forcefully over the net into the opponent's court. Here’s a detailed explanation of
the attacking process:
1. Approach:

- Start from a ready position, usually a few steps behind the net.

- Use a three- or four-step approach to build momentum:

- For a right-handed hitter, the typical sequence is left-right-left (for three steps) or right-left-right-
left (for four steps).

- For a left-handed hitter, the sequence is reversed.

2. Jump:

- As you take the final step of your approach, jump explosively, using your legs to generate height.

- Swing your arms back and then forward to add to your upward momentum.

3. Arm Swing:

- Bring your hitting arm back, keeping your elbow high and close to your ear.

- The non-hitting arm should point toward the ball to help with timing and balance.

4. Contact:

- Hit the ball at the highest point of your jump.

- Use an open hand to strike the ball, contacting it above and in front of your hitting shoulder.

- Snap your wrist at the point of contact to direct the ball downward into the opponent’s court.
5. Follow-Through:

- Follow through with your hitting arm, allowing it to cross your body.

- Land safely on both feet, bending your knees to absorb the impact.

6. Placement and Power:

- Aim for areas of the court that are difficult for the opponents to defend, such as the corners,
sidelines, or just in front of the back row players.

- Mix up your attacks with powerful spikes, tips (lightly tapping the ball over the block), and roll
shots (a softer, controlled hit that drops quickly).

7. Types of Attacks:

- Down-the-Line Attack: Hitting the ball along the sideline.

- Cross-Court Attack: Hitting the ball diagonally across the court.

- Tip or Dink: Gently tapping the ball over the block, aiming for an open spot on the court.

- Roll Shot: A slower, high-arcing shot that drops quickly.

8. Timing and Coordination:

- Coordinate with the setter to ensure a well-timed and well-placed set.

- Communicate with teammates to vary the attack and keep the opponents guessing.

Effective attacking requires a combination of power, precision, and strategy. Regular practice helps
in developing the timing, coordination, and technique necessary to become a proficient attacker.

Lesson 4: Duties and Responsibilities of Officiating Officials

Officiating in volleyball involves several officials, each with specific roles and responsibilities to
ensure the game is played fairly and according to the rules. Here are the primary officiating officials
in volleyball and their duties:

1. First Referee (R1):

 - Stands on a referee stand opposite the scorer's table.

- Has the final authority on all decisions.

- Oversees the entire match, including starting and stopping play, signaling faults, and making final
judgments on all rule infractions.

- Responsible for ensuring the match is conducted smoothly and fairly.

2. Second Referee (R2):

- Positioned on the opposite side of the net from the first referee, standing on the floor near the
scorer's table.

- Assists the first referee by focusing on net violations, rotation faults, and back-row attacks.

- Oversees the actions of the scorer and assistant scorer.

- Manages substitutions and timeouts, ensuring they follow the rules and are properly recorded.
3. Scorer:

- Seated at the scorer's table, responsible for keeping the official score of the match.

- Records points, rotations, substitutions, and sanctions.

- Communicates with the referees regarding any scoring discrepancies or issues.

4. Assistant Scorer (Libero Tracker):

- Assists the scorer by specifically tracking the actions of the libero, including replacements and
substitutions.

- Ensures that the libero follows the rules related to their unique position.

5. Line Judges:

- Typically, there are two or four line judges positioned at the corners of the court.

- They are responsible for signaling whether the ball lands in or out of bounds, touches the
antenna, or if there are foot faults during the serve.

- Use flags to make their calls clear to the referees and players.
6. Replay Officials (if applicable):

- In matches where video challenge systems are used, replay officials review challenged calls using
video footage.

- Assist the first referee in making final decisions based on the replay evidence.

Responsibilities and Signals:

- First Referee:

- Whistles to start and stop play.

- Uses hand signals to indicate faults (e.g., net touch, double contact, four hits).

- Indicates which team will serve.

- Second Referee:

- Whistles and signals for net violations, rotational faults, and back-row attacks.

- Manages substitutions and timeouts.

- Communicates with the first referee to ensure accuracy.

- Line Judges:

- Use flags to signal:

- Ball in: Point flag downward.

- Ball out: Raise flag straight up.

- Touches: Wave flag in front of the body.

- Foot faults on serve: Point to the line where the fault occurred.

The collaboration between these officials ensures the game is fair, smooth, and within the rules.
Proper communication, clear signals, and adherence to the rules are essential for effective officiating
in volleyball.

Lesson 5: Referees' Officials Handsignals

Referees' Official Hand Signals

1. Authorisation to Serve

Relevant Rules: 12.3, 22.2.1.1

- Move the hand to indicate which direction is the service.

2. Team to Serve

Relevant Rules : 22.2.3.1,22.2.3.2, 22.2.3.4

- Extend the arm to the side of the team that will conduct a service.

3. Change of Courts

Relevant Rule: 18.2

- Raise the forearms front and back and twist them around the body.
4. Time-out

Relevant rule: 15.4.1

- Place the palm of one hand over the fingers of the other, held vertically (forming a T) and then
indicate the requesting team

5. Substitution

Relevant Rules: 15.5.1, 15.5.2, 15.8

- Circular motion of the forearms around

each other.

6.1. Misconduct Warning

Relevant Rule: 21.1, 21.6

-Show a yellow card for warning.

6.2. Misconduct Penalty

Relevant Rules: 21.3.1, 21.6, 23.3.2.2

- Show a red card for penalty.

7. Expulsion

Relevant Rules: 21.3.2, 21.6, 23.3.2.2

-Show both cards jointly for expulsion.

8. Disqualification

Relevant Rules: 21.3.3, 21.6, 23.3.2.2

-Show red and yellow cards separately for disqualification.

9. End of Set (or Match)

Relevant Rules: 6.2, 6.3

-Cross the forearms in front of the chest, hands open.

10. Ball not tossed or released at the Service Hit

Relevant Rule: 12.4.1

Lift the extended arm, the palm of the hand facing upwards.

11. Delay in Service

Relevant Rule: 12.4.4

-Raise eight fingers, spread open

12. Blocking Fault or Screening

Relevant Rules: 12.5, 12.6.2.3, 14.6.3, 19.3.1.3, 23.3.2.3a, g, 24.3.2.4

-Raise both arms vertically, palms forward

13. Positional or Rotational Fault

Relevant Rules: 7.5, 7.7, 23.3.2.3a, 24.3.2.2

- Make a circular motion with the forefinger.

14. Ball "In"

Relevant Rule: 8.3

- Point the arm and fingers toward the floor.

15. Ball "Out"

Relevant Rules: 8.4.1, 8.4.2, 8.4.3, 8.4.4, 24.3.2.5, 24.3.2.7

-Raise the forearms vertically, hands open, palms towards the body.

16. Catch

Relevant Rules: 9.2.2, 9.3.3, 23.3.2.3b

- Slowly lift the forearm, palm of the hand facing upwards.

17. Double Contact

Relevant Rules: 9.3.4, 23.3.2.3b

-Raise two fingers, spread open.

18. Four Hits

Relevant Rules: 9.3.1, 23.3.2.3b

- Raise four fingers, spread open

19. Net touched by a player - Served ball touches the Net between the Antennae and does not
pass the Vertical Plane of the Net

Relevant Rules: 11.4.4, 12.6.2.1

-Indicate the relevant side of the net with the corresponding hand.
20. Reaching Beyond the Net

Relevant Rules: 11.4.1, 13.3.1, 14.3, 14.6.1, 23.3.2.3c

- Place a hand above the net, palm facing downwards

21. Attack Hit Fault

Relevant Rules:

– by a back-row player, by a libero or on the opponent’s service: 13.3.3, 13.3.4, 13.3.5, 23.3.2.3d, e,
24.3.2.4

– on an overhand finger pass by the libero in his/her front zone or its extension: 13.3.6

-Make a downward motion with the forearm, hand open.

22. Penetration into the opponent court ball crossing the lower space or the server touches the
court (End Line) or the player steps outside his/her court at the moment of the service hit

Relevant Rules: 8.4.5, 11.2.2, 12.4.3, 23.3.2.3a, f, 24.3.2.1

-Point to the center line or to the relevant line.

23. Double Fault and Replay

Relevant Rules: 6.1.2.2, 17.2, 22.2.3.4

-Raise both thumbs vertically.

24. Ball Touched

Relevant Rules: 23.3.2.3b, 24.2.2

- Brush with the palm of one hand the fingers of the other, held vertically.

25. Delay Warning/ Delay Penalty

Relevant Rules: 15.11.3, 16.2.2, 16.2.3, 23.3.2.2

-Cover the wrist with a yellow card (warning) and with a red card (penalty)

Line Judges' Official Flag Signals

1. Ball "In"

Relevant Rule: 8.3, 27.2.1.1

- Point down with flag.

2. Ball "Out"

Relevant Rules: 8.4.1, 27.2.1.1

- Raise flag vertical.

3. Ball Touched
Relevant Rule: 27.2.1.2

-Raise flag and touch the top with the palm of

the free hand.

4. Crossing Space Faults, Ball touched an outside object, or Foot fault by any player during service

Relevant Rules: 8.4.2, 8.4.3, 8.4.4, 12.4.3, 27.2.1.3, 27.2.1.4, 27.2.1.6, 27.2.1.7

- Wave flag over the head and point to the antenna or the respective line.

5. Judgement Impossible

-Raise and cross both arms and hands in front of the chest.