Attacking is how you score points by hitting the ball hard and fast into the other team's court. Let's learn the approach, jump and swing!
Begin about three or four big steps back from the net, standing tall but relaxed with knees slightly bent. Watch the setter and the ball so you know where to go.
🧢 Coach's Tip
Start far enough back. You need room for a good run-up!
⚠️ Watch Out!
Don't start right at the net. You'll have no space to approach.
For right-handers the approach goes left, right, left (left-handers do the opposite). Take a small first step, then a longer, faster step, then a quick close step so both feet land together. Each step gets faster.
🧢 Coach's Tip
Say it out loud: "Slow... faster... JUMP!"
⚠️ Watch Out!
Don't take tiny, slow steps the whole way. Speed up as you get closer.
On your last big step, swing both arms straight back behind you. Your hips go back and your knees bend deeply, like a spring getting squashed.
🧢 Coach's Tip
Arms back like a swimmer about to dive in!
⚠️ Watch Out!
Don't leave your arms at your sides. Arm swing helps you jump higher.
Push off both feet and swing both arms forward and up together. Jump straight up, not forward into the net. Your hitting arm pulls back with the elbow high, like drawing a bow.
🧢 Coach's Tip
Jump up like a rocket, not forward like a long-jumper.
⚠️ Watch Out!
Don't drift into the net. Plant your feet firmly and go up.
Swing your hitting arm forward fast and reach high. Hit the ball in front of your hitting shoulder with an open, firm hand. Snap your wrist so your fingers wrap over the top of the ball and send it down.
🧢 Coach's Tip
Reach high! Hit the ball at the highest point you can.
⚠️ Watch Out!
Don't let the ball drop behind your head. Keep it in front of you.
Land on both feet at the same time with your knees bent, like a soft spring. Keep your head and chest up so you don't fall over. Then get straight back to your ready position.
🧢 Coach's Tip
Land quietly like a cat. Quiet landings are safe landings!
⚠️ Watch Out!
Never land with straight legs or on one foot. Bent knees protect your body.