Developing the skill of jousting at the net.
Set up
# of players : 3-8 players
Ideal : 3 players
Equipment : 4+ balls
Average duration : 10-15 minutes
Description
- The simplest version of this drill has the ball is thrown up onto the top of the net by an athlete or coach and the two athletes at the net joust to win the point.
- If you have 3 athletes one could be a setter who comes in from the passing position and over-sets the ball to create the joust opportunity.
Evaluation :
# of good reps (ex. 5-8)
Variations
- From all areas on the court.
Progression
- Each blocker could have a partner in back court and this drill could be used to initiate a game.
- One blocker could use both hands in the block and compete against the other blocker who only uses 1 hand.
- In order to make it more difficult for one blocker the ball could be thrown from behind that athlete.
Key points
- Athletes need to understand what influences the decision to drop off.
- Factors such as the wind, the abilities of the attacker the trajectory of the set need to be taken into consideration.
- Blocker needs to have correct footwork when retreating.
- When retreating arms should be kept just below shoulder height so balls can be taken high.
- Blocker should focus on pushing over the net to penetrate and take away the hitters angle.