Volleyball players must work in concert defensively and offensively to succeed. The tactical side of the game is very important, and coaches must identify which systems fit their team best. The players, in turn, must master the systems to get the most from their ability. Motion is constant, communication is imperative and precision is critical.
Serve Receive Formations
Two common formations for receiving serves are the "W" and the "U." The "W" uses five receiving players and the "U" uses four. In the "W" formation, the setter is at the net, out of the receive formation. Two players line up wide on the 3-meter line, providing the tips of the "W." Two players line up in back, slightly closer together. One player lines up in the middle of the court, completing the W. There are many variations on these formations. For instance, variations on the "W" include the split formation and the slant and a left; shift right and left; and the deep, down and shallow formations.
Offensive Systems
Three common offensive systems are the 6-2, the 5-1 and the 4-2. The 6-2 system uses two setters and six hitters. A setter who rotates to the front becomes a hitter in this scheme. The 5-1 uses a single setter and five hitters. This system allows one setter to direct the offense. The 4-2 uses two setters, who play opposite of each other, and only four hitters. There always is a setter in the front row, so that player moves close to the hitter and sets the play. If need be, the setter also can dump or tip the ball.
Defensive Systems
In rotational defense systems, players read the play and rotate according to where the ball is hit. There are many types of rotational defense, including the perimeter system, the rotate system and the counter-rotate system. The perimeter system is designed to defend attacks to the perimeter of the court, with four diggers defending against hard spikes. This system can be vulnerable to tips. The rotate system has one fewer digger in the backcourt, but it defends against tips. The counter-rotate is strong against tips and also hitters who attack cross-court.
Fitting Systems With Teams
Olympic gold-media winning coach Doug Beal reminds teams that systems must be tailored to the personnel. Systems should exploit player strengths and negate their weaknesses. "Create a very specialized tactical system which takes maximum advantage of the players' abilities," he advises other coaches. "Specialization is most likely the key."
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