Back-set accuracy

What you need

Players

2 to 3 players

Time

6 to 10 min

Level

Intermediate

Equipment

Balls, Ball cart, Target

Ball fed by

The players

Space

Half a court

Setup

1. The setter at the net in the middle, facing the left sideline.
2. A partner a few meters (about 10 ft) in front of the setter and off the net, with a cart of balls.
3. A floor target by the right pin, about 1 m (3 ft) off the net.

How it runs

The setter stands by the net facing the left pin. A partner in front of the setter tosses a ball to the forehead, and the setter sends it backwards over the head to a target by the right pin, without turning to look. After ten back sets the two swap jobs.

Time and reps: 10 back sets each, then swap; 3 rounds.

Coaching points

• Take the ball a little higher above your head than for a front set.
• Push your hips forward and let your back arch slightly.
• Keep your shoulders quiet so the blockers cannot read it.
• Keep your head still until the ball has gone.

Ways to change it

• Tape a target on a wall above head height and back set at it.
• Add a right-side hitter who attacks the back set.
• Jump back sets once the standing ones are steady.

Terms on this page

Pin and antenna

The pin is the end of the net where outside hitters attack, and the left pin is on your left as you face the net. The antenna is the striped rod above each sideline; the ball has to cross the net between the two.

Back set

A set sent backward over the setter's head.

Opposite hitter

The player who lines up across from the setter in the rotation and usually attacks from the right side of the net.

Setter

The player who usually takes the second contact and sets the ball to a hitter.

Attack

Any hit that sends the ball at the other team, other than a serve or a block. A spike, a tip and a roll shot are all attacks.