Volleyball is a team sport where two teams of six players are separated by a net. The objective is to score points by grounding the ball in the opponent's court according to organised rules. Originating in 1895 in Massachusetts, the sport was invented by William G. Morgan, initially named “mintonette” before being renamed. Volleyball became an official Olympic sport in 1964, and beach volleyball was added in 1996.
The game begins with one team serving the ball over the net, starting a rally. Teams are allowed up to three touches to return the ball, commonly using passing, setting, and spiking techniques. Points are scored when the ball touches the opponent’s ground or when the opposing team commits a fault, such as hitting the ball out of bounds, failing to return it, or touching the net. Common faults also include double hits by the same player, catching the ball, or crossing the court’s boundaries.
Each team rotates players clockwise after winning a rally if the previous serve was by the opponent. Volleyball games are typically played in sets, with the team first reaching 25 points (and leading by at least two points) winning the set. A match is often best-of-five sets, with the final set played to 15 points if needed. Since 1999, rally scoring has been used, allowing points to be scored on every serve.
Key skills in volleyball include serving, passing, setting, spiking, blocking, and digging. The server aims to place the ball strategically to make it hard for opponents to return. The setter arranges plays by setting the ball for the attacker, who spikes it intending to ground it in the opponent’s court. Blockers attempt to stop spikes by reaching over the net, and diggers prevent the ball from touching the ground after a spike.
Teams use various strategies and formations such as 4-2, 5-1, and 6-2. Positions include the setter, outside hitter, middle blocker, opposite hitter, and libero, with each role contributing unique skills to team play.
Volleyball has numerous variations, including beach volleyball, snow volleyball, and newer formats like crossnet. The Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) governs the sport globally. Volleyball’s popularity has grown internationally, especially in Europe, Asia, and the Americas, supported by leagues, championships, and its Olympic presence.
There are several types of volleyball, each with distinct rules and playing environments. Here are the main types:
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