The net is the most important piece of equipment in volleyball aside from the ball, and the rule books for all volleyball organizations have specific instructions about how the net needs to be set up. The rule books establish strict standards about the size, makeup and location of the net. To guarantee fair competition and safety, volleyball net setup rules need to be followed.
Size
The size of the net affects the game, and uniformity is tantamount. For the National Collegiate Athletic Association, the 2009 Women's Rules and Interpretations book outlines the mandatory net size. The net must be 1 meter, or 39 inches, in width throughout the entire length from sideline to sideline, and "A double thickness of white canvas or vinyl five to eight centimeters wide must be sewn along the full length of the top of the net." The net must have squares encompassing 10 square centimeters, and the rule book specifies that the net must be taut so that it keeps its dimensions throughout the game.
Location
The net in volleyball is to represent the halfway point when going from service line to service line. The net should go along the midcourt line and not be on either side of the line, giving each team the same amount of open space to cover. In its 2009-2011 rule book, USA Volleyball declares that the top of the net must be 2.43 meters above the floor for men and 2.24 meters for women. For specific age groups, the number changes. Kids of both genders in the 11 to 12 age group use a net 2.13 meters high, and the height is 2.24 meters for 13 to 14 age group. The 15 to 18 age group has a higher net for boys at 2.43 meters, compared to 2.24 for the girls. Females age 45 and older use a net at 2.19 meters, while males 45 and older use nets varying from 2.29 meters to 2.43 meters.
Safety considerations
The net and its supports are part of the playing field, and it is very common for players to make contact with the net, though it is a violation to do so. Volleyball USA states on its website, "It is also a good idea to pad the poles to protect players using your court." Other less obvious spots can hurt players, and the NCAA rule book spells out rules to prevent injuries. Rule 2.1.1.5 declares that any exposed steel cables or metal clamps on the bottom of the net must be covered with some type of padding. The USA Volleyball rule book discourages wires, but if they cannot be avoided, then they must be covered by padding as well.
Referee Podium
A ladder-type podium for the referee is another required part in the net area. Located opposite the scoring table, the referee podium provides a spot for the first referee to stand and officiate the game. A referee podium is required, according to the NCAA rule book, and is a standard in high school volleyball games as well. The net should end at the podium, with half the podium on each side of the net, so that the referee can have a clear view of the top of the net.
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