The sport of men's volleyball continues to grow in popularity. Men's volleyball is now offered at the Olympics in indoor and beach varieties. The Federation Internationale de Volleyball or FIVB and USA Volleyball govern international and national volleyball competitions and have specific rules regarding volleyball uniforms for men.
Indoor Jersey Rules
According to FIVB, the governing body for international volleyball, men's indoor jerseys be numbered from 1 to 20, with jersey numbers centered in the front and back of the uniform. These numbers must be at least 6 inches tall on the front of the jersey and at least 8 inches in height on the back of the uniform. USA Volleyball says that all players must wear the color and jersey design except for the libero player. In addition, according to USA Volleyball, jersey numbers must be a different color and contrast to those on the uniform so combinations such as navy on black or white on yellow are not allowed.
Indoor Shorts And Shoe Rules
According to FIVB rules, players must also have their number on the right leg of their shorts and these numbers must be between 4 and 6 cm in height. FIVB rules also ban the use of black shoes during international play. According to USA Volleyball, the team captain must have his number underlined with a stripe on the front of his jersey. No restrictions are on the uniform design itself. Common men's indoor uniforms are simliar to basketball uniforms as players wear a tank-top jersey and shorts. USA Volleyball notes that anything worn underneath the uniform that is visible must be worn by all the players on the team. According to USA Volleyball, this includes tights, bicycle shorts, T-shirts or bodysuits.
Libero Uniform Rules
The libero is a defensive specialist who can be substituted into the game at any time for a back row player. Liberos are designated in the score book and they wear a different uniform than other players. According to USA Volleyball, libero jerseys must contrast in comparison with the colors on the jerseys of other team players. This means that if the team is wearing a dark color, the libero jersey should be light. The libero is subject to the other uniform rules regarding numbering.
Beach Uniform Rules
Men's beach volleyball is played outside on sand and usually at the beach in warm weather. Because of the conditions, men's beach uniforms are very different when compared to indoor uniforms. According to FIVB, men must wear shorts and have the option to wear a tank top or jersey and a hat. FIVB notes that tournaments have the option to require men to wear a tank top or jersey as a part of the rules. In beach volleyball, jerseys, if worn, must be numbered with a 1 or a 2, and FIVB rules state that if men do not wear a jersey then their shorts must be numbered. Jersey numbers are required to be centered, and team jerseys must be the same color and style according to the FIVB.
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