In volleyball, two teams of six players each stand on opposite sides of the net, each trying to hit the ball to the floor of the opposing team's court. The volleyball court resembles courts for several racquet sports, such as tennis and badminton. Official volleyball competitions must use courts that meet the rules and regulations set by USA Volleyball, the governing body for the sport in the United States, or the International Federation of Volleyball, the sport's international governing body.
Court Size
The volleyball court measures 29 feet, 6 inches wide and 59 feet long, according to USA Volleyball and International Federation of Volleyball rules. The net divides the court in half across the width. The court must have a free zone around it that measures at least 9 feet, 10 inches wide on all sides. The court must also have at least 23 feet of free playing space above the floor.
Court Markings
All of the court's markings must measure 2 inches in width, and must contrast in color with the floor. The court's exterior boundary lines must be drawn within the court's dimensions. A center line runs under the net, dividing the court into two equal sides, each measuring 29 feet, 6 inches wide by 29 feet, 6 inches long. Attack lines run parallel to the net on each side of the court, separating the front zone from the back zone. The rear edge of the attack line must be drawn 9 feet, 10 inches from the center of the center line.
Net
Domestic and international men's volleyball competition requires a net that measures 7 feet, 11 5/8 inches tall, according to USAV and FIVB rules. Domestic and international women's volleyball competition requires a net that measures 7 feet, 4 1/8 inches tall. The net's height must be measured from the center of the court at the center line.
Net Components
The net must consist of consistent black mesh with white canvas bands running along the top, bottom and sides. Antennae on either side of the net mark the limits of the crossing space over the net. Balls that pass over the net outside the antennae count as out of bounds. The antennae must extend 32 inches above the top of the net.
Member Comments