How to Coach Volleyball:
A detailed guide for first-time coaches
Coaching volleyball for the first time? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re brand new to the sport or just new to coaching, this guide will give you the essential knowledge and tools to get started with confidence. We’ve broken it down into simple, easy-to-follow steps that will help you understand the game, teach fundamental skills, and prepare for practices and matches—all without feeling overwhelmed. Start by watching this 1-minute video from master coach and AOC Founder Terry Liskevych to learn more about this guide and how it can help you succeed as a first-time coach.
Ready? Let's dive in! Here's everything you can learn on this page:
- Learn what makes the game of volleyball unique
- Watch a game to learn the flow
- Understand how the game works
- Learn how to teach the six volleyball skills and movement around the court
- Learn a basic system for serve receive
- Learn a basic system for defense
- Learn a simple offensive system
- Identify your coaching values
- Prepare for practice
- Prepare for matches
1. Learn what makes the game of volleyball unique
Volleyball is an incredibly fun sport, and it is also quite unique. Volleyball is played with six players on each side separated by a net in the middle of the court. Unlike many sports, players don’t make contact with players on the opposing team.
Volleyball is a rebound sport, so there is no throwing or catching. All actions with the ball are made by rebounding or redirecting the ball with the forearms – as in a pass or dig – or the hands – as in a set, attack or block.
The 6 spots on the court where volleyball players play are right back, middle back, left back, left front, middle front, right front. Before each serve, players must adhere to the overlap rule so they are in their proper positions. Players rotate clockwise every time they win a point when the opposing team is serving. In the next section, you'll get to see some of these unique aspects of the game in action!
2. Watch a game to learn the flow
Volleyball is all over YouTube! Watch a match to get a good feel for how the game is played. Here are a few you can start with:
3. Understand how the game works
Before you start coaching, it’s essential to understand the basics of how volleyball is set up and played so you can effectively teach the game to your players. In this section, we’ll cover some fundamental elements of the sport you should know, including court dimensions, basic volleyball rules, how players rotate around the court, different player positions, and some basic volleyball terminology. Let's get started!
The Volleyball Court
Indoor volleyball court dimensions: 29.5 ft x 59 ft (9 meters x 18 meters)
Indoor volleyball net height for women: 7′4 ⅛” (2.24 meters)
Indoor volleyball net height for men: 7′11 ⅝” (2.43 meters)
Indoor volleyball net height for U12: 7' (2.13 meters)
Indoor volleyball net height for U10 girls: 6'6" (1.98 meters)
Basic Volleyball Rules and Violations
If you're just starting your coaching journey, learning the basic rules of volleyball is a great first step. Below is a simple summary of how the game is played, along with some key rules and violations to help you build a strong foundation. For a deeper explanation of all volleyball rules, go here.
How play begins:
Every point starts with a serve from behind the end line.
Rallying:
Once the serve crosses the net, teams rally, or send the ball back and forth over the net until a fault occurs. Each team has a maximum of three contacts to return the ball to the opponent’s side to try to score a point. The first contact is a "pass," which is when a player rebounds the ball off of their forearms towards the setter. The second contact is a "set," where a setter uses either their hands or their forearms to send the ball to a hitter, who hits the ball over the net with one hand, called a "hit" or "attack."
How play ends/scoring:
A point is won when a team hits the ball to the floor on the opponent’s side, hits the ball off an opposing player, or the opposing team makes an error.
How a match works:
Volleyball matches are made up of sets, typically three or five sets where each set must be won by two points. Three-set matches (typically seen at lower levels) are two sets to 25 points and a third set to 15 points where the first team to win two sets wins the match. Five-set matches (typically seen at higher levels) are four sets to 25 points and a fifth set to 15 points where the first team to win three sets wins the match.
A few important things to note:
- Two teams of six players are separated by a net: three players in the front row, and three players in the back row on each side.
- After the serve, front row players can switch positions along the net and back row players can switch positions in the back court.
- Players cannot hit the ball twice in succession. A block does not count as a hit, so a player can touch the ball when blocking and then immediately contact the ball again.
- The ball can be played off the net on a serve and during a rally.
- A ball hitting a boundary line is in.
- A ball is out if it hits an antennae, the floor completely outside the court, any of the net or cables outside the antennae, the referee stand or pole, or the ceiling above a non-playable area.
- A player can contact the ball with any part of their body.
- It is illegal to catch, hold or throw the ball, and you cannot block or attack a serve.
Common errors: All of the faults below result in a point for the other team. Learn the ref signals for each of the calls here: Referee Signals.
- Double contact: A player contacts the ball twice in a row.
- Lift/carry: A player holds the ball too long when setting; the ball comes to rest in the player's hands instead of being rebounded quickly.
- Four contacts: A team hits the ball more than three times before sending it over the net. Each team is only allowed three contacts per play (not counting blocks).
- Foot fault: A player steps on or over the end line while serving.
- Net violation: A player touches the net while the ball is in play (hair or clothing touching the net is okay).
- Center line violation: A player’s entire hand or foot crosses completely over the center line under the net, presenting a safety hazard to the other team.
- Out of rotation: Players must maintain their rotational order throughout the game. If a team has players out of order when the ball is served, it’s a violation, and the opposing team gets a point.
- 10-ft line violation: A back-row player jumps in front of the 10-ft line (also called the 3-meter line) and attacks the ball above the height of the net. This is only legal if they jump from behind the line.
Volleyball Player Positions
The key volleyball player positions are setter, outside hitter, opposite hitter, middle blocker, Libero, defensive specialist, and serving specialist. Learn more about what makes each position unique below.
Setter
The setter is the playmaker of the team, responsible for delivering accurate sets to the hitters and running the offense. They typically take the second contact and aim to put the ball in the best position for an attack. A good setter needs strong decision-making skills, quick hands, and great communication with teammates.
Libero
The libero is a defensive specialist who wears a contrasting jersey and cannot attack the ball above the net. They focus on passing and digging, often replacing middle hitters in the back row to improve the team's defense. The libero has unlimited back-row substitutions but cannot rotate into the front row.
Middle Hitter (Middle Blocker)
Middle hitters are responsible for quick attacks at the net and blocking opposing hitters. They need to be fast and agile to transition between offense and defense efficiently. A strong middle hitter can read the opponent’s plays and close blocks with the outside and opposite hitters.
Outside Hitter (Left Side Hitter)
The outside hitter is one of the primary attackers and plays on the left side of the court. They need to be versatile, as they not only attack but also play defense and pass in serve receive. Consistency and smart shot placement are crucial for outside hitters.
Opposite Hitter (Right Side Hitter)
The opposite hitter plays on the right side of the court and is often a strong attacker and blocker. They help defend against the opposing outside hitter and provide a key attacking option. Many opposites are left-handed, giving them an advantage when hitting from the right side.
Defensive Specialist (DS)
A defensive specialist is similar to a libero but does not wear a contrasting jersey and has regular substitution limitations. DS players focus on passing, digging, and covering the court defensively, often subbing in for front-row players who are weaker in the back row.
Serving Specialist
A serving specialist is a player who is subbed in specifically to serve, often replacing a player with a weaker serve. They should have a strong and consistent serve that puts pressure on the opponent and can target weaker passers.
Basic Volleyball Terminology You Should Know
Below are some of the most important terms every coach should know. For a full list of volleyball terms, see our Volleyball Glossary.
- Ace: A serve that lands in the opponent’s court untouched or cannot be returned, resulting directly in a point.
- Kill: An attack that results in an immediate point or side out because the opponent can’t return it.
- Dig: A defensive move where a player prevents the ball from hitting the floor after an opponent’s attack.
- Block: A defensive move by a front row player where they jump and press both arms over the net in order to stop the attacker from hitting the ball onto their side.
- Libero: A back row defensive specialist who wears a different colored jersey and cannot attack above the height of the net. They often sub in for middle blockers.
- Side out: When the receiving team wins the rally and gains the right to serve.
- Free ball: A non-aggressive ball sent over the net (usually as a pass) instead of an attack, which gives the opposing team an easy opportunity to set up an attack.
- Rotation: The clockwise movement of players to a new position on the court after their team sides out and earns the right to serve.
Zones of the Court
The volleyball court is divided into "zones" numbered 1 through 6, as seen in the diagram below. The zones aren't visible on the court, but knowing where they are will help you communicate court positioning, rotation and playing strategies to your players. Zones 1, 6 and 5 make up the back row of the court, while zones 4, 3, and 2 are in the front row. Zone 1 is the right back corner, and from there the numbers move clockwise around the court. Once a player rotates into Zone 1, they are the server. A common use for zones is telling players which zone to serve or attack to, in order to target a certain player or spot on the court.
How to Rotate Players Around the Volleyball Court
In volleyball, the players on each side rotate clockwise every time their team earns the right to serve by winning a rally that started with a serve from the other team. The six players on the court shift one position, with the player in Zone 2 moving to Zone 1 (the serving position), the player in Zone 1 moving to Zone 6, and so on. Front row players (Zones 4, 3, and 2) must stay in front of their corresponding back row players (Zones 1, 6, and 5) until the ball is served. Once the rally begins, players can move freely around the court.
Watch the diagram to see player rotation in action. To see a more in-depth discussion of rotations, watch this video: Understanding volleyball rotations.
4. Learn how to teach the six volleyball skills and movement around the court
Teaching the fundamental volleyball skills is one of the most important things you’ll do as a coach—especially at the beginner level. These skills are the building blocks of the game, and helping young players learn them early (and correctly!) sets them up for long-term success and confidence on the court. In this section, we’ll break down the six essential volleyball skills: serving, passing, setting, attacking, defense, and blocking.
You'll find simple explanations, tips for teaching each skill to beginners, and short video demonstrations to help you see what good technique looks like. We’ll also cover basic movement around the court so your players can start putting skills into action during game play. Let’s get started!
Serving
Serving is how every rally begins, and it’s a skill every player should master. For beginners, the underhand serve is a great place to start. It’s easier to control and helps players build confidence as they learn proper technique. As players improve, they can progress to the overhand serve, which allows for more power and control. Both types of serves are effective at the beginner level, and the key is consistency. Below, we’ll show you how to teach both styles step-by-step.
Underhand Serve
- Setup:
- Start with the non-dominant foot forward (right-handers start with their left foot forward) and feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent in a relaxed athletic stance.
- Hold the ball in your non-dominant hand at belly button height, arm extended but relaxed. Keep this arm holding the ball still—this is your "target."
- Make a fist with your hitting hand, thumb on the outside, and swing your arm back like a pendulum, keeping it straight and relaxed.
- Contact:
- Take a small step with your front foot as you swing your arm forward in a straight line.
- Contact the ball just below center with the flat part or heel of your closed fist.
- Swing through the ball toward the target.
- Cue words:
- "Step, swing"
- "Hold it still"
- "Swing straight"
- "Hit with the heel"
- "Follow through"
How an underhand serve should look:
How to teach an underhand serve:
Overhand Serve (Standing Float Serve)
- Setup:
- Stand behind the end line, facing the target zone.
- Feet shoulder-width apart with a slight stagger (non-dominant foot forward).
- Hold the ball in the non-dominant hand at about shoulder height, elbow slightly bent.
- Serving arm is pulled back in a bow-and-arrow position, elbow high, palm open.
- Contact:
- Toss the ball straight up about 12–18 inches in front of the hitting shoulder with no spin.
- Shift your weight onto your front foot and swing your hitting arm straight toward the ball, contacting the middle of the ball with a firm, open hand (do not snap the wrist).
- Follow through should be short or freeze at contact (don’t wrap the arm across the body).
- Cue words:
- “Toss straight and slow”
- “Flat hand, firm wrist”
- “Hit the middle of the ball”
- “Freeze on contact”
- “Step, swing, freeze”
How a standing float serve should look:
The basics of how to teach the float serve:
Passing
Passing is the foundation of every successful play in volleyball. It’s the first contact after the serve and sets up the rest of the rally. For beginners, learning how to create a strong, steady platform and control the ball with their forearms is essential. The goal is to send the ball accurately to the setter. Below, we’ll walk you through how to teach the basics of passing step-by-step.
- Setup:
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, and weight slightly forward on the balls of your feet.
- Arms are out in front with hands together, thumbs side-by-side and pointing down to create a flat platform.
- Keep your elbows straight and shoulders forward — the ball should contact your forearms, not your hands.
- Stay low and balanced, ready to move.
- Contact:
- Let the ball come to your platform (don’t swing).
- Angle your platform to direct the ball toward the setter.
- Use your legs and body to guide the ball upward, finishing in a balanced position with your platform facing your target.
- Cue words:
- “Platform out”
- “Arms straight”
- “Thumbs together”
- “Angle to target”
- “Use your legs”
- “Freeze the finish”
How passing should look:
How to teach passing:
Setting
Setting is the second contact in a typical volleyball rally. A good set gives the hitter the best chance to score, making it one of the most important skills to develop early. For beginners, the focus is on hand positioning, body control, and making a clean, accurate delivery to a target. While advanced setting involves movement and decision-making, the basics start with simple reps that build touch and confidence. Below, we’ll show you how to teach the fundamentals of setting step-by-step.
- Setup:
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, right foot slightly forward, knees slightly bent, and weight balanced on the balls of your feet.
- Hold your hands up in front of your forehead, forming a triangle or “window” with your thumbs and index fingers.
- Fingers should be spread wide and relaxed, elbows bent and pointing slightly out.
- Contact:
- As the ball approaches, absorb it with soft hands — contact should happen on the pads of your fingers, not the palms.
- Bend your knees slightly and extend your arms and legs together as you push the ball up and out toward your target.
- Finish with fully extended arms, wrists flicked, and fingers pointing at the ball's destination.
- Cue words:
- “Right foot forward”
- “Window up”
- “Catch it in the wedge”
- “Push to the sky”
- “Use your wrists, not your elbows”
How setting should look:
How to teach setting:
Attacking
Attacking, also called hitting, is how players score. For beginner players, learning to hit starts with understanding footwork, arm swing mechanics, and timing. Before jumping into full approaches, players should first get comfortable with arm motion and controlled contact. As they build coordination and confidence, they can progress to more dynamic hitting. Below, we’ll walk through how to teach the fundamentals of attacking.
- Setup:
- Stand in a balanced position with knees slightly bent and weight on the balls of your feet.
- For right-handed players, start with the left foot forward; for left-handers, start with the right foot forward.
- Begin with arms down and relaxed, preparing to swing in rhythm with your steps.
- Approach:
- Start with a 3-step approach:
- Right, Left, Right for right-handers
- Left-Right-Left for left-handers
- The first step should be the shortest; the last two steps should be long, quick and explosive.
- As you take your final two steps, swing both arms back, then drive them up as you jump.
- Start with a 3-step approach:
- Contact:
- In the air, bring your hitting arm back in a “bow and arrow” shape — elbow high, hand by your ear.
- Contact the ball with a fast, open hand (arm should be fully extended).
- Snap your wrist and follow through down across your body.
- Cue words:
- “Arms back, arms up”
- “Bow and arrow”
- “High contact”
- “Fast arm”
- “Snap and follow through”
How attacking should look:
How to teach attacking:
Digging (Individual Defense)
Digging is the defensive skill used to keep the ball off the floor after an opponent’s attack. For beginners, the focus is on learning proper body position, platform control, and how to react quickly while staying low and balanced. Early digging drills emphasize posture, platform angle, and tracking the ball with the eyes. As players gain confidence, they can start digging harder-driven balls and learning to move more effectively. Below, we’ll show you how to teach the basics of digging step-by-step.
- Setup:
- Start in a low, athletic stance with knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, and weight slightly forward.
- Keep your arms out in front and your platform ready. Shoulders should be slightly forward, with your chest over your knees and knees over your toes.
- Stay relaxed and balanced, ready to move in any direction.
- Contact:
- Put your platform together and angle it toward the target (the setter or middle of the court).
- Let the ball come to your platform — don’t swing at it.
- For balls outside your body, step or shuffle toward the ball while keeping shoulders and platform angled toward the target.
- Cue words:
- “Low and ready”
- “Platform out”
- “Angle to target”
- “Move your feet”
- “Freeze the finish”
How digging should look:
How to teach digging:
Digging (Individual Defense)
Digging is the defensive skill used to keep the ball off the floor after an opponent’s attack. For beginners, the focus is on learning proper body position, platform control, and how to react quickly while staying low and balanced. Early digging drills emphasize posture, platform angle, and tracking the ball with the eyes. As players gain confidence, they can start digging harder-driven balls and learning to move more effectively. Below, we’ll show you how to teach the basics of digging step-by-step.
- Setup:
- Start in a low, athletic stance with knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, and weight slightly forward.
- Keep your arms out in front and your platform ready. Shoulders should be slightly forward, with your chest over your knees and knees over your toes.
- Stay relaxed and balanced, ready to move in any direction.
- Contact:
- Put your platform together and angle it toward the target (the setter or middle of the court).
- Let the ball come to your platform — don’t swing at it.
- For balls outside your body, step or shuffle toward the ball while keeping shoulders and platform angled toward the target.
- Cue words:
- “Low and ready”
- “Platform out”
- “Angle to target”
- “Move your feet”
- “Freeze the finish”
How digging should look:
How to teach digging:
