Passing is one of the most fundamental and crucial skills in volleyball. It is the action of receiving the ball from the opposing team, usually after a serve, and directing it to a teammate in a controlled manner to set up an offensive play. A good pass can be the difference between a successful attack and losing possession of the ball. This article provides an in-depth exploration of how to pass in volleyball, covering techniques, drills, common mistakes, and the importance of the pass in the overall flow of the game.
What Is Passing in Volleyball?
Passing in volleyball is often referred to as a “bump” or “forearm pass”, as it involves using the forearms to direct the ball after receiving a serve or an attack. The goal of the pass is to control the ball and send it to the setter, who will then set up the ball for an attack. The better the pass, the easier it is for the setter to perform their role, and ultimately, for the team to launch a strong offensive play.
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Types of Passes
1. Forearm Pass (Bump)
The forearm pass is the most common type of pass in volleyball. This is the technique players use to pass the ball after receiving a serve or a hard-hit ball. The forearm pass is used to handle balls that are traveling fast and need control to set up the next phase of play.
2. Overhead Pass
The overhead pass is used when the ball is coming slower or higher, allowing the player to use their hands to pass the ball. This pass is often seen when players receive a softer serve or when a ball is approaching at an easy angle. Though less common than the forearm pass, the overhead pass can be a crucial tool for quick play.
3. One-Handed Pass
Sometimes, players may find themselves out of position or unable to get both hands or forearms under the ball. In these situations, a one-handed pass may be necessary. This pass is more difficult to control and should only be used in emergencies when there is no time to properly position oneself for a two-handed pass.
Steps to Execute a Forearm Pass
1. Position Yourself Correctly
The first and most critical step in passing is proper positioning. If you’re not in the right position, the rest of the pass will be much more difficult. Here are key positioning tips:
Stay low: In volleyball, staying in a low, athletic stance is essential for quick movement and reaction. Bend your knees slightly, keeping your weight balanced on the balls of your feet.
Feet shoulder-width apart: Your feet should be positioned shoulder-width apart to provide stability and balance. This allows you to move quickly in any direction.
Square to the ball: Face the direction the ball is coming from and position your body so you’re ready to move toward the ball.
2. Form the Passing Platform
The platform refers to your forearms when they are positioned together to pass the ball. Here’s how to form a proper passing platform:
Hand positioning: Bring your hands together by placing one palm inside the other or locking your thumbs side by side. Keep your thumbs together and pointed down.
Straighten your arms: Your arms should be straight and together, creating a solid surface for the ball to make contact. The contact point should be the flat part of your forearms, just above the wrists.
Angle your platform: The angle of your platform is key to directing the ball. To send the ball higher, angle your platform upward. For a lower pass, keep your platform flat or angled slightly down.
3. Move to the Ball
Once you’ve positioned yourself and formed your platform, it’s time to move to the ball. In volleyball, players must be able to react quickly to the ball’s flight and position themselves to make a good pass. Here are some tips:
Quick footwork: Use quick, small steps to move toward the ball. This allows you to adjust your position with precision.
Stay low while moving: Avoid standing up straight as you move toward the ball. Keep your knees bent and stay low so you’re ready to make the pass.
Adjust your angle: As the ball approaches, be ready to adjust your body and platform angle to send the ball to the setter.
4. Contact the Ball
Making contact with the ball is the most important part of the pass. Here’s how to do it correctly:
Forearm contact: The ball should make contact with the flat surface of your forearms. Avoid using your hands or wrists, as this can lead to loss of control.
Don’t swing your arms: Contrary to what some might think, passing in volleyball is not about swinging your arms. Instead, let the ball hit your stable platform and use your legs to generate power.
Follow through with your legs: As you make contact with the ball, push off your legs and extend slightly upward to give the pass more height. This allows for better control and accuracy.
5. Direct the Ball
After contact, your goal is to send the ball accurately to the setter or a designated target. To do this, you must:
Use body positioning: Direct the ball with your body position and the angle of your platform. To pass the ball to your right, slightly angle your platform in that direction.
Maintain control: Aim to keep the pass smooth and controlled, ensuring the setter has enough time to reach the ball. Avoid overhitting or sending the ball too high.
6. Recover and Prepare for the Next Play
After completing the pass, immediately return to a ready position. Volleyball is a fast-paced game, and you need to be prepared for the next play, whether it’s blocking, receiving another hit, or moving into a defensive position.
Drills to Improve Passing
1. Wall Passing Drill
The wall passing drill is a simple but effective way to practice your passing form and consistency. Stand a few feet from a wall and pass the ball against the wall using your forearms. Focus on maintaining a consistent platform and controlling the ball’s height and direction.
2. Partner Passing Drill
Partner passing drills help players improve accuracy and control. Stand about 10 feet away from a partner and pass the ball back and forth using the proper passing technique. Gradually increase the distance as you improve.
3. Shuffle Passing Drill
This drill focuses on footwork and passing accuracy. Stand in your passing stance and have a coach or partner toss the ball to your left or right. Shuffle your feet quickly to move to the ball and pass it back to your partner. Repeat the drill, focusing on quick foot movement and proper form.
4. Target Passing Drill
Place a target, such as a cone or a hoop, on the court where the setter typically stands. Practice passing the ball toward this target, aiming to get as close as possible. This drill helps with directional control and accuracy.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
1. Swinging the Arms
Many beginners make the mistake of swinging their arms when passing, thinking this will help control the ball. However, this often results in erratic passes. Instead, focus on keeping your arms steady and using your legs to generate the necessary power.
2. Poor Footwork
Without proper footwork, players will struggle to get into position to pass the ball accurately. Work on maintaining an athletic stance and using small, quick steps to move to the ball. Avoid crossing your feet or lunging at the ball.
3. Incorrect Platform Angle
The angle of your platform determines the direction the ball will go. If your platform is angled incorrectly, the ball will go off course. To fix this, focus on keeping your arms straight and adjusting your platform based on the desired direction.
The Importance of Passing in Volleyball
Passing is the first step in a successful offensive play. Without a solid pass, the setter will struggle to set up an attack, and the team will be at a disadvantage. A good pass sets the tone for the rest of the play, allowing the setter to deliver an accurate set and the attackers to hit the ball with precision.
In competitive volleyball, teams spend significant time practicing passing because it directly influences the flow of the game. Poor passing leads to fewer offensive opportunities and more errors, while excellent passing creates more chances for kills and points.
The Role of the Libero in Passing
The libero is a specialized defensive player whose primary responsibility is to pass the ball. Liberos are often the best passers on the team and are involved in nearly every serve receive situation. They are not allowed to attack or block but can replace any back-row player without prior notice to the referee.
The libero’s skill in passing is crucial for a team’s success. Since they focus solely on defense and passing, they often have the most refined passing technique and footwork. Liberos must be consistent and accurate, as they are responsible for keeping the ball in play and delivering it to the setter.
Conclusion
Passing in volleyball is an essential skill that requires proper technique, quick footwork, and consistent practice. By mastering the forearm pass and overhead pass, players can help their team maintain control of the ball and set up effective offensive plays. Focus on your platform, movement, and contact point to become a better passer, and incorporate drills into your practice routine to build muscle memory and consistency.
In volleyball, everything starts with the pass. Whether you’re a libero, an outside hitter, or a middle blocker, developing strong passing skills will elevate your game and give your team a better chance of success.
