This game looks to develop shot play by forcing athletes to play the ball on the ground. Additional to developing ball control it also reinforces the strategy of taking a look at the opposition prior to hitting.
Set up
# of players : 4-8 players
Ideal : 4 players
Equipment : 1 ball +
Average duration : 15-25 minutes
Description
- Normal game rules apply except athletes are not allowed to jump.
- You could make up additional rules such as double points for any ball that touches the ground without being touched by a player to encourage commitment to the ball.
- Getting setting partners to call a specific shot is an additional rule you can implement to increase communication between partners.
Variations
- Switch teams
- Switch sides
Progression
- You can make the athletes move up to each side of the net after the ball has crossed the net.
- You could make the athletes drop down to the ground every time the ball crosses the net.
Key points
- The key is to take constant looks at the opposition so you know where they are and then get your feet under the ball so you are in a good position to play any shot.
- Athletes need to make sure that they keep a high elbow when attacking the ball.
- Athletes need to be reminded to be down and ready to move prior to the shot being made as in this drill athletes are unlikely to hit the ball directly at their opposition.