Tips for a Successful Block
Use your peripheral vision to scope the direction of the hit.
Learn the footwork necessary to move to be in position. "Turn and go"
Touch every ball.
Watch the setter to help determine where the ball is going. Always track the ball and not the setter.
Arms should be over your head whenever the ball reaches the setter's hands.
Reach and penetrate across the net.
Do not swing your arms.
Make your opponents hit over you.
Keep your eyes open.
Outside blockers call the middle block to "set" the block.
Performance Guidelines
Read the setter
Determine speed and height of set.
Anticipate where along the net the ball can be hit.
Read Pass-Set-Hit
Front Hitter
Find the hitter as soon as you know where the set is going.
Observe hitter's angle of approach and speed.
Position yourself in front of the hitter's shoulder.
Ready Position
Hips parallel to net.
Hands high-fingers spread.
Slight flex of the knees.
EXPLODE
Jump maximally as quick as possible.
Wrists slightly extended, elbows locked.
Shoulders elevated, shoulders forward.
Tight abdominal and gluteal (bask side) muscles.
Legs fully extended, feet pointed, legs together.
Reach Across
Arms should reach net as soon as possible and far as possible.
Surround the ball.