In volleyball, serving dictates scoring. Expert servers can score quick points or put the defense on its heels the entire rally. On the other hand, knowing how to receive serve and transition to offense can mean the difference between victory and defeat. Volleyball receiving drills can give teams the advantage when returning serves or even when receiving passes from teammates.
Footwork
In order to properly receive a serve or pass, players must be in correct position. A simple drill to stress mobility and footwork involves tossing volleyballs toward a waiting receiver. But instead of striking the ball, the player squares up in proper hitting position, then lets the ball bounce through his legs. If the ball bounces clean through, it means the player was in proper position to receive the ball. If the ball strikes the players legs or body, it means positioning remains a problem.
Middle Attacker
This drill helps teach receivers and setters to quickly organize an effective middle attack. Start with two servers on one side of the net, with three receivers, one setter and one middle attacker on the other side. The drill begins with the server hitting the ball to a designated receiver, who then directs the ball to the setter for a pass to the middle attacker. The receivers earn 1 point for every effective pass. Encourage the group to communicate and work as a unit. To ensure a competitive drill, award 1 point for every service ace. The receivers should try to register 15 points before the server scores five aces.
Target
Position three hitters on one side of the net. On the other side, station three passers and one player who is the target. The drill begins with one of the hitters serving a ball to a designated passer on the opposite side. The passer then moves the ball to the target player with either a forearm or overhead pass. The drill helps players practice moving returns to specific teammates in order to start the offensive assault.
Transition
To work on transitioning from receiving to attacking, place five players on each side of the net. The two teams take turns serving. The player who receives serve passes it to a setter near the net, who then sets the ball according to the receiver's call. The receiver then transitions to the attack, running up to strike the ball to the opposing team.
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