Gets practice dropping off the net (retreating) and playing a ball that is hit towards them. It is recommended that athletes are familiar with the technique of ‘high ball’ defense before the ball is driven high and hard at the retreating athlete.
Set up
# of players : 2-8 players
Ideal : 2 players
Equipment : 1 ball per pair
Average duration : 5-15 minutes
Description
- An athlete or coach slaps the ball then tosses it and attacks it over the net towards the retreating athlete.
- At the slap the athlete retreats off the net and plays the ball hit at them.
Evaluation :
# of good reps (ex. 5-8)
Variations
- Both sides of the net
- Switch blocker/defender and attacker
- Dropping line or cross
- Dig :
Short
Deep over the head of the retreating athlete.
Hard at the face.
Hard to the body.
Either side of the body.
Progression
- Increase the number of reps that the athlete has to complete before rest.
- The athlete could complete a block before dropping off.
- Coach could alter the height of the toss to make it more difficult for the retreating athlete to judge how far they need to get back.
Key points
- Athletes need to be down, ‘loaded’ and ready to move prior to the retreat.
- Athletes should be reminded to never take their eyes off the net when retreating. Make sure the correct foot is forward. The athlete should be stopped and balanced when the ball is hit.
- Athletes should keep their arms up at shoulder height throughout the movement to enable them to play a low or high ball on retreating.