Setting is a crucial skill that enables attackers to execute successful kills. It’s an essential piece of the puzzle for any volleyball team. In this post, you’ll learn how to set the ball correctly, which will set you up for a more advanced and diversified setting.
In the 6-0 system, the player in zone 3 is the setting player, while in organized volleyball systems, 4-2, 6-2, or 5-1, the setter is the main position who sets the ball. Sets must be higher and precise, positioned 1m away from the net, and directed towards the wing attackers in zones 4 (left) and 2 (right). While In organized volleyball, sets must be quicker to outpace the block on the other side.
1. Stance
To prepare for setting, you should first move under the ball as fast as possible, stand shoulder-width apart, and place your net foot slightly ahead of the other. If you are late, it will probably lead to double touch, especially if you are a beginner. Your knees need to be slightly bent and your back straight. This is because you use your whole body, not just your hands while setting the ball. Your body must be facing the target where you will set the ball.
2. Hand Position
After you learn how to get under the ball correctly, you need to master using your main tool for setting, your hands. Your hands need to be above your forehead, with your fingers widespread as if holding a ball. Your thumbs and index fingers should form a triangle, and your palms should be slightly concave. Avoid touching the ball with your palms, as this can lead to a double contact or a lift.
3. Ball Contact
You should contact the ball with your fingertips, using your wrists and fingers to control the direction and speed of the set. Like I said before, use your whole body to generate maximum power into the ball. Aim to make contact at the highest point possible and avoid letting the ball drop below your eyes.
4. Follow-Through
After contacting the ball, extend your arms and wrists toward the target. Also, follow the ball with your eyes and head and maintain balance. Also, one thing to note here is to pay attention to how the ball leaves the hands. The ball needs to leave softly from the hands! It needs to float through the air without rotation. Achieving that requires a lot of practice to become consistent and precise. Although it might look simple, it is not.
Conclusion
Setting is, for many, the most demanding skill in volleyball despite looking the simplest. It requires the most understanding and practice. There’s much to learn, and becoming proficient takes time… In the beginning, strive to keep the sets high to allow the attackers time to adjust and execute their hit.
One of the best exercises I recommend to younger players and beginners is wall setting with a medicine ball. Its goal is to strengthen your arms and wrists for setting. You’ll need a wall and a medicine ball. Stand approximately two feet (1m) from the wall and set the medicine ball against it. Maintain the ball’s position, aiming for 20 to 30 consecutive sets. You can also vary the height and speed of the sets.
When you learn the basics, start to think about expanding the reperteaur. Add jump to your sets, set to different positions, on the left side, right side (front or back row), pipe, and Quick Attack areas. But more about that in other blog posts.
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