International Federation of Volleyball rules allow volleyball teams to designate up to two players as defensive specialists known as Liberos. USA Volleyball rules allow teams to designate one Libero per set. Teams must designate Liberos on the official scoresheet for each match. Libero players must follow specialized rules to avoid committing faults that can cost their teams points.
Uniform
The Libero must wear a jersey that clearly contrasts in color with his teammates' jerseys. Subtle color contrasts such as purple and black, navy and maroon or white and light yellow do not suffice, according to USA Volleyball rules. The Libero's jersey may have a different design than his teammates' jerseys, but the jersey's number must match the font of the rest of the team's numbers.
Position
Each volleyball team must have six players on the court at a time. Each of these players occupies one of six positions, including three front-row positions and three back-row positions. The Libero player can only enter the game in a back-row position. When the rotation forces the Libero player to move into a front-row position, another player must enter the game to replace her.
Limitations
The Libero player may not make an attack hit from anywhere on the court, including the free zone around the court, while the ball remains above the top of the net. The Libero player may not serve or block at any time. If the Libero makes an overhand finger pass from the front zone, his teammates may not attack the ball while it remains above the net. If the Libero makes an overhand finger pass from the back zone, his teammates may attack the ball freely. Violation of any of these rules results in loss of point.
Replacements
Substitutions involving the Libero do not count toward a team's substitution total. A team may make unlimited replacements involving the Libero. A completed rally must occur between two Libero substitutions, however, and the player the Libero replaced must enter the game again when the Libero exits. Teams can only make Libero replacements while the ball remains out of play and before the referee blows the whistle for the serve.
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