In volleyball, the net is one of the few pieces of equipment that is required. The dimensions and construction of the net are specific and important to keep the sport fair. The top organizations governing the sport of volleyball include the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB), USA Volleyball (USAV) and the NCAA. The net requirements of these organizations are generally consistent with only minor variations existing among the three.
Height
The height of the net is measured from the centerline to the top of the net. A net height of 2.43 meters for men and 2.24 meters for women is required. USAV also recommends alternate heights for various age groups. Females age 45 and above use a net height of 2.19 meters, females 11 and 12 years old use 2.13 meters, and females 10 and younger use 1.98 meters. Men age 55 and above use a net height of 2.38 meters, males 13 and 14 years of age use 2.24 meters, and males 12 and younger use 2.13 meters. The ends of the net must be the same height and cannot exceed regulation height by more than 2 cm.
Structure
Volleyball nets should measure 1 meter wide and 9 1/2 to 10 meters long. Nets are to be made of 10 cm square black mesh. Across the top a white band should be sewn the full length of the net. The band should be made of double thickness canvas. The NCAA requires the band to be 5 to 8 cm wide, USAV requires it to be 5 to 7 cm wide and FIVB requires the band to be 5 cm wide. At the end of the band is a hole that allows for a cord to pass through and attach the net to the posts. Within the band there is a cable which fastens to the posts to keep the top of the net taunt. A second horizontal band covers the bottom of the net and is 5 cm wide. It attaches to the post in the same manner at the top band.
Side Bands
Side bands are vertical bands that are fastened to the net over the sidelines. They are considered part of the net. Side bands are to be 5 cm wide and 1 meter long. They should be white in color. USAV and NCAA consider sidebands to be optional.
Antennae
Antennae are flexible rods that extend vertically from the outer edge of the side bands of the net and laterally define the crossing space. They are considered part of the net. Antennae are typically made out of fiberglass or other similar material. They are to be 1.8 meters long and 10 mm in diameter. The antennae should extend above the net by 80 cm and the top 10 cm are to be marked with stripes of contrasting color preferably red and white.
Posts
Posts are used to support the net and are not considered part of the net. Posts are 2.55 meters high and are to be round and smooth. They should be fixed to ground 0.5 to 1 meters outside the sideline. The NCAA recommends a distance of at least 1 meter outside the sideline which is also the distance of all FIVB world and official competitions. Most importantly posts should not be intrusive or pose any safety risks.
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