Indoor Volleyball: Complete Guide

Basic Game Rules

Volleyball is played best of 5 sets, with each set won by the first team to reach 25 points with at least a 2-point difference. The fifth set is played to 15 points.

Scoring and Game System

• Direct point: Each play scores a point, regardless of who serves
• Rotation: Players rotate clockwise when the team recovers serve
• Team touches: Maximum 3 touches before sending the ball to the opposing court
• Net contact: Only accidental contact with the net is allowed
• Lines: The ball can touch the court lines

Main Fouls

• Double touch: A player touches the ball twice consecutively
• Holding: The ball is kept in contact with the hands longer than allowed
• Invasion: Touching the net or opposing court
• Rotation fault: Not respecting the rotation order
• 4 touches: Exceeding the team touch limit

The Setter: The Team's Brain

The setter is the most important player on the team, responsible for organizing the attack and distributing the game. They must have excellent game vision, refined technique and leadership ability.

Setter Responsibilities

• Receive the second touch and set it for the attack
• Analyze the opposing defense and choose the best attacker
• Vary the speed and height of sets
• Communicate plays to the team
• Participate in blocking when in the front row

The Opposite: The Main Attacker

The opposite is the team's most powerful attacker, specialized in spikes from zone 2 (right). They never set and always attack, being the main offensive option.

Opposite Characteristics

• High stature and jumping power
• Excellent spike technique
• Ability to attack from different positions
• Active participation in blocking
• Good reception when in back row

The Libero: Defense Specialist

The libero is a player specialized in defense and reception, identified by a different colored uniform. They cannot attack, block or serve, but can freely replace any back row player.

Libero Functions

• Opposing serve reception
• Court defense
• Pass to the setter
• Team communication
• Defensive leadership

Middle Blockers: Kings of Blocking

Middle blockers are tall players specialized in blocking and quick attacks. Their speed and coordination are fundamental for team success.

Middle Blocker Responsibilities

• Blocking in the center of the net
• Quick attack (tempo 1)
• Constant offensive pressure
• Front row defense
• Communication with the setter

Outside Hitters: Versatility in Action

Outside hitters combine attack and defense, being versatile players who must master multiple aspects of the game.

Outside Hitter Functions

• Attack from the wings
• Serve reception
• Court defense
• Wing blocking
• Effective serving

5-1 System: The Most Popular

The 5-1 system uses one setter and five attackers, being the most used in high-level volleyball for its versatility and effectiveness.

5-1 System Advantages

• Specialized and consistent setter
• Greater offensive power with 5 attackers
• Tactical flexibility
• Better distribution of responsibilities
• Adaptability to different situations

Disadvantages

• Dependency on the setter
• Fewer attack options when the setter is in the back row
• Greater complexity in rotations

4-2 System: Double Setter

The 4-2 system uses two setters and four attackers, providing greater consistency in setting but less offensive power.

4-2 System Characteristics

• Two rotating setters
• Four specialized attackers
• Greater consistency in setting
• Ideal for developing teams
• Less tactical complexity

6-2 System: Maximum Offense

The 6-2 system uses six attackers, with two setters who also attack when in the front row, maximizing offensive power.

6-2 System Advantages

• Maximum offensive power
• Six attackers available
• Greater variety of attack options
• Flexibility in rotations

Disadvantages

• Greater technical complexity
• Requires very versatile setters
• Less consistency in setting

The Finger Touch

The finger touch is the most precise technique for passing the ball, used mainly by the setter to direct the attack.

Correct Execution

• Hand position in "window" shape
• Separated and firm fingers
• Contact with fingertips
• Coordinated extension of arms and legs
• Controlled ball direction

The Forearm Touch

The forearm touch is fundamental for serve reception and defense, providing control and precision.

Forearm Touch Technique

• United and parallel forearms
• Interlaced or overlapped hands
• Low and stable position
• Contact with the inner part of the forearms
• Coordinated leg movement

The Spike

The spike is the offensive action par excellence, combining power, precision and technique to overcome the rival block.

Spike Phases

• Approach: Coordinated approach to the ball
• Jump: Vertical impulse with correct technique
• Hit: Contact with the palm of the hand
• Landing: Controlled and safe landing

The Block

The block is the first line of defense, designed to intercept the rival attack and create counterattack opportunities.

Block Technique

• Position near the net
• Extended arms and active hands
• Jump coordinated with the attacker
• Hand penetration over the net
• Communication between blockers

Rival Analysis

Analysis of the opposing team is fundamental for developing effective strategies and adapting the game to the rival's characteristics.

Aspects to Analyze

• Individual strengths and weaknesses
• Game system used
• Attack and defense patterns
• Specialists and their characteristics
• Behavior in key situations

Field Communication

Effective communication is essential for team success, allowing coordination and quick decision making.

Communication Elements

• Clear and concise verbal signals
• Non-verbal communication (gestures)
• Ball calls
• Position information
• Motivation and mutual support