Keep the ball ‘in system’ as it allows for more control and is a great concept for beginner players.
Set up
# of players : 2-8 players
Ideal : 4 players
Equipment : 2-8 balls
Average duration : 10-15 minutes
Description
- The athlete or coach serves balls at a receiving pair on the opposite side of the net.
- The athletes attempt to play out the ball with a conventional pass, set and spike but the coach pays close attention to whether the ball stayed ‘in system’ or not.
- Athletes can get 1 point for every play ‘in system’ and perhaps and additional point for spiking the ball inside the opposition court.
Passers goal is to pass the ball as close to straight up and down as possible.
Evaluation : # of points made on good passes in system (ex. 10 points)
Variations
- Switch passers and servers
- Switch left and right
Progression
- Easy balls
- Normal serves
- Hit in the opposide side of the court after passing and setting the ball.
- Serve tougher and in particular to the sidelines.
Key points
- Before starting this drill players must first understand the concept of ‘in system’ and ‘out of system’ play. If you visualize two lines running perpendicular to the net from each player – any ball played within these two lines (and forward) is considered ‘in system’ while any ball played outside of these two lines is considered ‘out of system’. ‘In system’ is good and out of system’ is bad.
- Don’t pass the ball to your partner. Pass the ball forward and slightly inside.
- When the ball is passed out of system off the serve, athletes need to focus on bringing the ball back ‘in system’ rather than over playing the ball and loosing even more control.
- If the pass is poor, the athlete needs to ‘follow the pass’ in order to make the job of setting up the attack easier for their partner.