Volleyball drills for youth

For beginners in youth volleyball, the focus should be on foundational skills. Drills like ‘Bump and Catch,’ where players pass the ball and then catch it, help develop hand-eye coordination and understanding of ball control. ‘Serving Relay,’ where players practice serving in a fun, competitive format, builds serving skills and team spirit. Simple setting drills, where players pair up and set the ball back and forth, improve hand positioning and control. These drills should be engaging, encouraging, and designed to build basic skills without overwhelming young players.

To make youth volleyball drills fun and engaging, incorporate games and competitive elements. For example, ‘Shark Attack’ is a drill where players must keep the ball off the ground to avoid being ‘caught’ by the shark (a coach or player). ‘Volleyball Four Square’ combines the classic playground game with volleyball skills, requiring players to bump or set in a four-square court. Drills that involve teamwork, like relay races or cooperative challenges, also keep young players engaged. Remember, the key is to balance skill development with playful elements to maintain enthusiasm and interest.

Effective drills for improving team communication in youth volleyball include exercises that require players to call out actions or intentions. ‘Call the Ball’ drills, where players must loudly announce when they are going to hit the ball, foster communication and prevent collisions. Drills like ‘Blind Volleyball,’ where one player is blindfolded and must rely on verbal cues from teammates, can also be effective. Additionally, setting up scenarios where players need to plan and execute plays together encourages strategic communication. These drills not only improve communication but also build trust and teamwork among young players.

To improve serving in youth volleyball, start with ‘Target Practice’ drills, where players aim at specific areas or targets on the court. This helps with accuracy and control. ‘Serve and Sprint’ drills, where players serve and then quickly move to a defensive position, are great for developing both serving skills and agility. Consistency drills, where players aim to serve a certain number of successful serves in a row, build endurance and focus. It’s important to ensure that these drills are adjusted to the skill level of the players, gradually increasing in difficulty as they improve.

Developing defensive skills in youth volleyball can be achieved through drills that emphasize movement, positioning, and anticipation. ‘Shuffle Pass’ drills, where players shuffle side to side while passing the ball, improve footwork and readiness. Drills like ‘Dig or Die,’ where players must keep the ball in play for as long as possible, enhance reaction time and resilience. Incorporating drills that simulate game-like situations, such as ‘Blocker vs. Hitter,’ helps players understand positioning and timing in a real match context. It’s crucial to teach the importance of defensive roles and encourage a proactive mindset towards defense.