Clinician: Juliann Faucette-Johnson, former athlete with the Women's U.S National Team.
Purpose: Break down the three most critical parts of becoming an efficient blocker at the net.
How it Works: Faucette-Johnson goes over the three primary aspects of blocking: footwork, core strength and precise hands. Practice these three components of the block first by simulating the movements without an attacker, and then by adding an attacker on a box.
- Feet: Feet should always be square to the net. Developing quick footwork is essential for a productive blocker.
- Core: Blockers must squeeze their core during every block. This will not only protect the lower back against impact, but will also force the hands to penetrate over the net.
- Penetrating the Hands: With each block, blockers should squeeze their shoulders high, brace the core and linger as long as possible at the top of the block with wide hands - leaving no gaps.
Requirements: At least two blockers, a net and balls.
