Volleyball can be the most casual non-competitive game in the world and it can also be played at a fever pitch by some of the world's best athletes. It could be a family picnic and it could be the Olympics. Either way, once the net has been set up, one of the two teams will win and the other will lose. As a result, even the most relaxed games can become fairly intense at the drop of a hat. As a result, even casual players need a net that is secure and will stand up to hard spikes, set-ups and physical contact. Top-level volleyball nets are made of aluminum and have a telescoping system that allow the nets to be set up at multiple heights. They also need support from a guy wire that will keep the system upright when action gets heated.
What to Look for
Ease of set-up is an important factor for casual players who want to put together a game at a family picnic. This is not a big issue for competitive games at the high school, college or Olympic levels. In those instances the systems have to be strong and secure. A guy wire system that is anchored into a stadium floor guarantees the net will be secure and won't collapse when a player misses his or her spike and pounds the ball into the net or when the player goes crashing into the net. A telescoping system allows the net to be set at different heights. In competitive mens' volleyball the net is set at 7-feet 11 and 5/8 inches. In the womens' game, the net is required to be at 7 feet 4 and 1/8 inches.
Common Pitfalls
Not following the instructions leads to insecure netting. It may take a little bit of time, but installing the guy wires correctly will insure a secure game of volleyball. Getting the proper equipment will allow the net to be set at variable heights. This is especially important in games involving children or adults who lack a great deal of athleticism. Not having the proper equipment will can mean that players won't be able to enjoy the game.
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