Sent to Don 5/18/2024
Volleyball training for kids: Teaching the fundamentals of attacking
By Ruth Nelson
Volleyball training for kids: Teaching the fundamentals of attacking
By Ruth Nelson
Volleyball training for kids: Teaching the fundamentals of attacking
By Ruth N. Nelson
Teaching Attacking in Youth Volleyball: A Step-by-Step Guide
Attacking, also known as spiking or hitting, is a fundamental skill in volleyball that can dramatically influence the outcome of a game. For youth players, mastering this skill involves progressing through two key stages: hitting without jumping (down-ball) and jumping with either a 2-step modified or 3-step full approach. This guide provides a structured approach for coaches to effectively teach attacking, emphasizing the importance of technique, progression, and consistent practice.
Stage 1: Down-Ball (Hitting Without Jumping)
Objective:** Develop proper arm swing and body positioning while standing on the floor.
1. Puppet Position and Arm Swing:
- Begin with players standing still in a 1/4 (quarter) turn.
- Teach them the "puppet position" where their arms are raised as if they are in the final phase of a swing.
- Focus on a fluid arm swing motion to build muscle memory.
2. Consistent Tosses:
- Have parents or coaches provide consistent tosses that land directly in front of the player.
- This helps the player practice correct body and arm positioning.
3. Upper Body Movement with Mini-Footballs:
- Use mini-footballs/tennis balls/puffers to develop a strong arm swing.
- Players start in the puppet position and throw the football/tennis ball/puffer over the net, focusing on a 1/4 turn position and a 4-count arm swing.
4. Footwork Integration:
- Gradually introduce footwork, starting with basic steps to position the body correctly for the swing.
- Emphasize balance and coordination between the footwork and arm swing.
Stage 2: 2-Step Modified Approach (Introduction to Jumping)
Objective: Integrate footwork synchronization and timing with the arm swing, adding a slight jump.
1. Footwork and Timing:**
- Teach the 2-step modified approach.
- Focus on the timing of the footwork with the arm swing to ensure coordination and balance.
2. Consistent Tosses for Jumping:**
- Tosses should be directly above the player and slightly over their hitting arm.
- This helps the player isolate the jump, incorporating the backswing, forward swing, and the final 4-count arm swing.
3. Parent / Player Involvement:**
- Ensure players/ coaches and parents provide accurate and consistent tosses to facilitate proper jump mechanics.
Stage 3: Full 3-Step Approach (Advanced Jumping and Hitting)
Objective: Develop speed, weight transfer, and explosive jumping for maximum reach and power.
1. Footwork and Speed:
- Introduce the full 3-step approach, emphasizing quick and coordinated steps.
- Teach players to use their arms to help transfer weight and gain speed.
2. Explosive Jumping:
- Focus on the final step being an explosive jump, reaching the highest possible point for the hit.
- Ensure the player maintains proper form throughout the jump and swing (backswing, upswing and armswing..
3. Comprehensive Drills:
- Use drills that integrate all aspects of the approach: footwork, arm position, arm swing, and follow-through.
- Incorporate throwing a tennis ball as a warm-up to develop a quick and precise arm swing.
Age-Specific Focus
- Ages 4-6: Prioritize down-ball drills to build foundational skills without the complexity of jumping.
- Ages 7-8: Introduce the 2-step modified approach as players develop more strength and coordination.
- Ages 8-11: Gradually work on all aspects of attacking, preparing players for the full 3-step approach.
Key Considerations for Effective Attacking
1. Solid Passing and Setting:
- Emphasize the importance of a good pass and a consistent set, as these create optimal opportunities for attacking.
2. Consistent Practice:
- Regular practice and drills are crucial for developing and refining attacking skills.
- Encourage players to practice at home, using drills like throwing a tennis ball or puffer to maintain their technique.
3. Fun and Engagement:
- Keep the training sessions fun and engaging to foster a love for the game and motivate young players to improve.
Conclusion
Attacking in volleyball is a complex skill that requires patience, practice, and proper technique. By following a structured progression, youth coaches can help players develop into confident and effective attackers. Focus on building a solid foundation, progressing gradually, and maintaining consistent practice. With the right approach, young players will not only improve their attacking skills but also enjoy the exciting journey of learning and mastering one of volleyball's most dynamic skills.
For a short overview on what to emphasize when teaching young players to serve, watch the video below.
For a comprehensive course on teaching volleyball to kids aged 4-11, check out Ruth Nelson’s BYOP® 101 and Home Training Program Series™ Online Courses, available on the Art of Coaching Volleyball website.
Ruth N. Nelson is a former USA Team player, teacher, and coach at the collegiate, national, and professional levels. For the past 24 years, she has focused on and created innovative programs for ages 10 and under that engage parents alongside their children in training (Bring Your Own Parent Program – BYOP®) as well as the GoKids Youth Sports™ Certification program and the 24/7 Virtual RNN Sports Gym™.
By Ruth N. Nelson
Teaching Attacking in Youth Volleyball: A Step-by-Step Guide
Attacking, also known as spiking or hitting, is a fundamental skill in volleyball that can dramatically influence the outcome of a game. For youth players, mastering this skill involves progressing through two key stages: hitting without jumping (down-ball) and jumping with either a 2-step modified or 3-step full approach. This guide provides a structured approach for coaches to effectively teach attacking, emphasizing the importance of technique, progression, and consistent practice.
Stage 1: Down-Ball (Hitting Without Jumping)
Objective:** Develop proper arm swing and body positioning while standing on the floor.
1. Puppet Position and Arm Swing:
- Begin with players standing still in a 1/4 (quarter) turn.
- Teach them the "puppet position" where their arms are raised as if they are in the final phase of a swing.
- Focus on a fluid arm swing motion to build muscle memory.
2. Consistent Tosses:
- Have parents or coaches provide consistent tosses that land directly in front of the player.
- This helps the player practice correct body and arm positioning.
3. Upper Body Movement with Mini-Footballs:
- Use mini-footballs/tennis balls/puffers to develop a strong arm swing.
- Players start in the puppet position and throw the football/tennis ball/puffer over the net, focusing on a 1/4 turn position and a 4-count arm swing.
4. Footwork Integration:
- Gradually introduce footwork, starting with basic steps to position the body correctly for the swing.
- Emphasize balance and coordination between the footwork and arm swing.
Stage 2: 2-Step Modified Approach (Introduction to Jumping)
Objective: Integrate footwork synchronization and timing with the arm swing, adding a slight jump.
1. Footwork and Timing:**
- Teach the 2-step modified approach.
- Focus on the timing of the footwork with the arm swing to ensure coordination and balance.
2. Consistent Tosses for Jumping:**
- Tosses should be directly above the player and slightly over their hitting arm.
- This helps the player isolate the jump, incorporating the backswing, forward swing, and the final 4-count arm swing.
3. Parent / Player Involvement:**
- Ensure players/ coaches and parents provide accurate and consistent tosses to facilitate proper jump mechanics.
Stage 3: Full 3-Step Approach (Advanced Jumping and Hitting)
Objective: Develop speed, weight transfer, and explosive jumping for maximum reach and power.
1. Footwork and Speed:
- Introduce the full 3-step approach, emphasizing quick and coordinated steps.
- Teach players to use their arms to help transfer weight and gain speed.
2. Explosive Jumping:
- Focus on the final step being an explosive jump, reaching the highest possible point for the hit.
- Ensure the player maintains proper form throughout the jump and swing (backswing, upswing and armswing..
3. Comprehensive Drills:
- Use drills that integrate all aspects of the approach: footwork, arm position, arm swing, and follow-through.
- Incorporate throwing a tennis ball as a warm-up to develop a quick and precise arm swing.
Age-Specific Focus
- Ages 4-6: Prioritize down-ball drills to build foundational skills without the complexity of jumping.
- Ages 7-8: Introduce the 2-step modified approach as players develop more strength and coordination.
- Ages 8-11: Gradually work on all aspects of attacking, preparing players for the full 3-step approach.
Key Considerations for Effective Attacking
1. Solid Passing and Setting:
- Emphasize the importance of a good pass and a consistent set, as these create optimal opportunities for attacking.
2. Consistent Practice:
- Regular practice and drills are crucial for developing and refining attacking skills.
- Encourage players to practice at home, using drills like throwing a tennis ball or puffer to maintain their technique.
3. Fun and Engagement:
- Keep the training sessions fun and engaging to foster a love for the game and motivate young players to improve.
Conclusion
Attacking in volleyball is a complex skill that requires patience, practice, and proper technique. By following a structured progression, youth coaches can help players develop into confident and effective attackers. Focus on building a solid foundation, progressing gradually, and maintaining consistent practice. With the right approach, young players will not only improve their attacking skills but also enjoy the exciting journey of learning and mastering one of volleyball's most dynamic skills.
For a short overview on what to emphasize when teaching young players to serve, watch the video below.
For a comprehensive course on teaching volleyball to kids aged 4-11, check out Ruth Nelson’s BYOP® 101 and Home Training Program Series™ Online Courses, available on the Art of Coaching Volleyball website.
Ruth N. Nelson is a former USA Team player, teacher, and coach at the collegiate, national, and professional levels. For the past 24 years, she has focused on and created innovative programs for ages 10 and under that engage parents alongside their children in training (Bring Your Own Parent Program – BYOP®) as well as the GoKids Youth Sports™ Certification program and the 24/7 Virtual RNN Sports Gym™.
For an entire program, parents, teachers, coaches, and directors can enlist the help of Ruth N. Nelson, Founder of BYOP® and GoKids Youth Sports, who has amassed over 50 years of volleyball experience and expertise at all levels.
Youth Program Directors, Coaches, and Parents are encouraged to take Ruth Nelson’s BYOP® 101 and Home Training Program Series™ Online Courses, available on the Art of Coaching Volleyball website. Click this LINK BYOP® 101 for the four fundamental skills. And click this LINK for the Home Training Program Series™.
Also, Register to Become a GoKids Youth Sports™ Skills Trainer online or in person. Click HERE for more information and to register.
About the Author
Ruth is a former USA Team player, teacher, and coach at the collegiate, national, and professional levels. For the past 24 years, Ruth has focused on and created the most innovative program for ages 10 and under that engages parents alongside their children in training (Bring Your Own Parent Program – BYOP®) as well as the GoKids Youth Sports™ Certification program and the 24/7 Virtual RNN Sports Gym™.
Youth Program Directors, Coaches, and Parents are encouraged to take Ruth Nelson’s BYOP® 101 and Home Training Program Series™ Online Courses, available on the Art of Coaching Volleyball website. Click this LINK BYOP® 101 for the four fundamental skills. And click this LINK for the Home Training Program Series™.
Also, Register to Become a GoKids Youth Sports™ Skills Trainer online or in person. Click HERE for more information and to register.
About the Author
Ruth is a former USA Team player, teacher, and coach at the collegiate, national, and professional levels. For the past 24 years, Ruth has focused on and created the most innovative program for ages 10 and under that engages parents alongside their children in training (Bring Your Own Parent Program – BYOP®) as well as the GoKids Youth Sports™ Certification program and the 24/7 Virtual RNN Sports Gym™.
Check your understanding
Summary of Key Points
Check Your Understanding: Teaching Attacking in Youth Volleyball
1. Understanding the Fundamental Stages of Attacking:
- What are the two primary stages of attacking in youth volleyball?
- Describe the objectives of each stage.
2. Stage 1: Down-Ball (Hitting Without Jumping):
- What are the key components of developing proper arm swing and body positioning in this stage?
- How do consistent tosses help players in mastering the down-ball technique?
3. Stage 2: 2-Step Modified Approach (Introduction to Jumping):
- What is the objective of the 2-step modified approach?
- Explain the importance of footwork synchronization and timing in this stage.
4. Stage 3: Full 3-Step Approach (Advanced Jumping and Hitting):
- What skills are emphasized in the full 3-step approach?
- How does this stage focus on developing speed, weight transfer, and explosive jumping?
5. Age-Specific Focus:
- What age groups are recommended for prioritizing down-ball drills?
- How does the progression of attacking techniques vary for different age groups?
6. Key Considerations for Effective Attacking:
- Why is solid passing and setting essential for effective attacking?
- How can coaches ensure consistent practice and maintain player engagement?
7. Conclusion:
- Summarize the importance of following a structured progression in teaching attacking.
- Highlight the benefits for young players in mastering attacking skills in volleyball.
8. Reflection:
- Reflect on how you can apply the step-by-step guide to your coaching approach.
- Identify areas where you may need further clarification or practice in teaching attacking skills.
Summary
Understanding the fundamentals of attacking in youth volleyball is crucial for coaches to effectively guide players through each stage of skill development. By following a structured approach and addressing age-specific needs, coaches can help players learn to attack while fostering a love for the game.
Summary of Key Points
Check Your Understanding: Teaching Attacking in Youth Volleyball
1. Understanding the Fundamental Stages of Attacking:
- What are the two primary stages of attacking in youth volleyball?
- Describe the objectives of each stage.
2. Stage 1: Down-Ball (Hitting Without Jumping):
- What are the key components of developing proper arm swing and body positioning in this stage?
- How do consistent tosses help players in mastering the down-ball technique?
3. Stage 2: 2-Step Modified Approach (Introduction to Jumping):
- What is the objective of the 2-step modified approach?
- Explain the importance of footwork synchronization and timing in this stage.
4. Stage 3: Full 3-Step Approach (Advanced Jumping and Hitting):
- What skills are emphasized in the full 3-step approach?
- How does this stage focus on developing speed, weight transfer, and explosive jumping?
5. Age-Specific Focus:
- What age groups are recommended for prioritizing down-ball drills?
- How does the progression of attacking techniques vary for different age groups?
6. Key Considerations for Effective Attacking:
- Why is solid passing and setting essential for effective attacking?
- How can coaches ensure consistent practice and maintain player engagement?
7. Conclusion:
- Summarize the importance of following a structured progression in teaching attacking.
- Highlight the benefits for young players in mastering attacking skills in volleyball.
8. Reflection:
- Reflect on how you can apply the step-by-step guide to your coaching approach.
- Identify areas where you may need further clarification or practice in teaching attacking skills.
Summary
Understanding the fundamentals of attacking in youth volleyball is crucial for coaches to effectively guide players through each stage of skill development. By following a structured approach and addressing age-specific needs, coaches can help players learn to attack while fostering a love for the game.
