Defensive Positions

1. Defensive Positions Read these before viewing: • We set up our block to take away the cross-court shot. We “take angle” and “give line.” • Defense should be played “outside-in,” meaning a player should never have to chase an attacked ball to the sideline. • Outside hitters help the middle blocker against an opponent’s middle hitter. Outside hitters also block front row setters attempting to tip the ball over. • Middle-back players will shift to the side of the hitter. • Systems do not play defense. Players play defense. Read the hitter and make every effort to play every ball.

2. Opponent hitter Middle Setter Outside Opposite Middle(Sub) Outside

3. Opponent hitter Outside Middle Middle(Sub) Setter Opposite Outside

4. Opponent hitter Outside Middle Setter Middle(Sub) Opposite Outside

5. When our setter is in the back row, and the other team is hitting an easy “free ball” to us, our setter will call “FREE!!!” and “release” to her setting position. The two other back-row players will split the court to cover her absence. Hitters will drop off the net into their hitting positions. A good middle blocker may stay at the net to challenge the free ball by blocking before dropping off to hit. FREE BALL Setter Middle Opposite Outside Middle(Sub) Outside