Developing the skill of the blocker to turn after landing and hustling to get to the ball to make a good transition set. The drill also gives the defender practice digging the hard driven ball, chasing down the soft shot and converting with a spike.
Set up
# of players : 2-8 players
Ideal : 3 players (with a coach)
Equipment : 8-12 balls, net, bench
Average duration : 20-25 minutes
Description
- 1 blocker, 1 defender.
The coach or another player hits a ball cross court. The defender must dig the ball while the blocker jumps to cover the line. - Once the defender digs the ball, the blocker turns and set the ball to the defender.
- The defender hits the ball on the other side of the court.
- Repeat.
The ball could be hit over the line or cross court and played out. The ball could also occasionally be driven into the block.
Evaluation : # of good transition sets.
Variations
- Right side
- Left side
- Rotate between the players
Progression
- Reading the play
The coach gives a call with his hands (line or cross) and the setter must indicate his partner where to hit the ball. - Support
2nd ball is thrown quickly by the coach after the hit from the defender. The blocker must set the ball again and the defender hits on 2.
Key points
- Athlete should focus on using the correct footwork when retreating and make sure that they are stationary and balanced when the ball is hit.
- The retreating blocker should also maintain visual contact on the attacker to better anticipate where the ball may go.
- When moving to set the ball, the athlete should focus on getting around the ball to face the target.
Chilled approach
- Fast to slow
- Dip, dip, push
- Shoulders always facing the target (net)
- Chilled body
Good ball Trajectory
- Up and down
- 2x the antenna
- Keep it close to you and your partner