In volleyball, a block is performed by jumping and holding your hands above the top of the net, typically to stop an attack, known as a spike, from making its way to your side of the court. It is usually performed at the net, within the attack zone. Players must follow several rules while blocking in order to avoid a violation and a free point to the other side.
Player
Only the player or players in front row positions may attempt an above-the-net block. If a back row player takes part in an over-the-net block, even if he does not make contact with the ball, a violation has occurred and the other team scores a point.
Timing
A player may not block an opponent's serve but may attempt or complete a block after any other return. A blocking player may make contact with the ball before it comes over the net; this is only permitted if the other team has already made contact with the ball three times or if there is no other opposing player in position to make an attack. The blocking player also commits a violation if she touches the net.
Rally
A block does not count as a team contact. Therefore, if your team attempts a block but the ball makes it over the net, your team still has three contacts available in the rally. In addition, the blocking player is permitted to make an additional first contact with the ball.
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