A closer look at the gameplay shows how volleyball actually works. The actions usually follow a clear pattern.
Typical sequence of a rally:
- Serve: a player puts the ball into play and hits it over the net
- Reception: the opposing team receives the ball, usually with a controlled dig
- Set: the ball is played to the setter, who prepares the attack
- Attack: an attacker hits the ball powerfully into the opponent’s court
- Block or defence: the opposing team attempts to block the attack or defend the ball
This sequence repeats until a team can no longer return the ball according to the rules or an error occurs. In this case, the opposing team is awarded the point.
Important to know: a rally in volleyball can be decided very quickly. Often just a few actions are enough to win or lose a point. That is why precision and team coordination are so important.