The first volleyball nets were patterned after tennis nets and measured just 6 feet by 6 inches. Modifications have been made in the net dimensions to accommodate the average height of the players. Today net dimensions are standard, but net height varies between different groups of players.
Dimensions
Volleyball nets today are 39 inches wide and between 31 feet 6 inches and 33 feet long. There is a white band on top of the net running horizontally. This strip is made of white folded canvas and measures 2 3/4 inches wide. A 2-inch horizontal canvas strip attaches across the entire length of the bottom of the net.
Taut
The net stays taut throughout play due to a flexible cable that sits within the top canvas band. A rope runs through the bottom canvas strip and is fastened to the pole, helping to keep the bottom of the net taut.
Side Bands
Above the sideline on each side of the net sits a white band that is positioned horizontally. These bands are considered optional, but if there, are part of the net. They measure 2 inches wide and 39 inches long.
Antennae
Each side band is connected to an antennae that is 3/8 inches thick and 5 foot 11 inches long. The antennae is made of a flexible material such as fiberglass. The antennae extends 32 inches above the net to aid in determining boundaries during play. The antennae are part of the net.
Height
Net height varies depending on gender and age of the players.
Women, ages 13 to 44 play with the center of the net set at 7 feet 4 1/8 inch high. Women 45 years of age and above play with a net height of 7 feet 2 1/8 inch high. Girls ages 10 and under play with the net at 6 feet 6 inches high. The net height goes up to 7 feet for 11 and 12 year old girls.
Men ages 15 to 44 play with a net height of 7 feet 11 5/8 inches. The net lowers to 7 feet 9 5/8 inches at age 55 to 60 and lowers again to 7 feet 6 inches when men reach the age of 70 and above. Boys ages 10 to 12 play with the net set at 7 feet. When boys are 13 to 14 years old the net is set at 7 feet 4 1/8 inches high.
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