What are the rules of volleyball

What are the rules of volleyball

What are the rules of volleyball? So, before you roll your eyes and ask why, we have to go over this. Let’s face it – even though you are already aware of them. Sometimes, a quick refresher can take your game from good to great. Furthermore, every rule has its purpose, whether it is the correct positioning of rotation or setting net height.

However, volleyball is actually more than hitting the ball over the net. It’s about playing strategically and avoiding those rookie mistakes. So, it is advisable to consider these guidelines as secret weapons that will smooth your game while ensuring fair and chaotic free play.

Are you ready to get a grip on these rules? So, let’s jump into them to sharpen our knowledge. As the old saying goes –  the more you know, the better you can perform.

Table of Contents

How to play volleyball?

Alright – First, you make a team of six players on each side of the court. To make things interesting, add a net in the middle of the court. You can visit our article “ How High Is a Volleyball Net” on our website.

Understanding: “ What are the rules of volleyball in the net setting?” is the key to a smooth game.

Now, you have two teams and six players on each side and put the net according to the rule. What should you do next? The next step is to toss a coin. We will be off to the race after the toss-winner team gets its first serve. On the court, both teams will pass the ball back and forth. The goal of both teams is to score points by hitting the ball on the ground without leaving opponents a chance to return the ball. Now, move on to the next section to explore scoring in volleyball.

What is scoring in volleyball?

So, what are the rules of volleyball scoring? Don’t you feel we should know about the volleyball scoring rule? Wait. If you think that scoring in volleyball does not require any rules, then let me clear your misunderstanding first.

You can play a volleyball match in either five sets or three sets. Every set is played with 25 points. In every set, both teams have to score 25 points to qualify for the set. However, to win against the opposing team, you need to score 2 points extra. Consider you are playing a three-set match, and if there is a tie between two sets, there will be a third set, and this set will be played to 15 points. To win this set, you have to score two more points, and the same rule goes for a 5 set match.

Basic rules in volleyball

Let’s dive into what are the rules of volleyball to ensure everyone is on the same page. We will start with the basic and most essential rules.

Team

On the court, each team consists of six players: three players at the front and three at the back to defend. However, they also have six substitutes. These bench heroes will be on call when required. However, these bench heroes must swap back with the specific players they originally replaced.

Ball handling

Here is the inside scoop for beginners: you can touch the ball with any part of your body. Wait! Any part? Yes, unlike soccer, you can touch the ball with your legs, arms, feet and head. But to score a point, your ball must cross over the net and hit the ground. Furthermore, your team is allowed to hit the ball three times only, but only one player can hit the ball once. But blocking is the exception; this bonus move does not count toward your hit.

Court and Net rules

While exploring –  what are the rules of volleyball, you must learn to stay within the court boundaries during play. If your ball lands on the ground within the boundary, it will count as “ in,” and if it hits outside the court boundary, ceiling, or antenna, it will count as “ out.” Furthermore, you are prohibited from touching the net and crossing the centerline with any part of your body.

Serve and Rotation

Your team can rotate clockwise before every serve. While serving, if any team makes an error, like hitting the net or stepping over the baseline, the serve can go to the other team. So, serve smart by staying behind the baseline. And if two players of one team hit the ball at the same time, it would count as one hit – no harm, no foul. 

Penalties

What are the rules of volleyball during play? You are free to use any part of your body during play, but you cannot carry, palm, or throw the ball. While attacking, you need to maintain a distance from the net; touching the net or staying closer to the net will count as a foul.

Referee

Two referees and other officials, such as the scorekeeper and line judges, are here to ensure fair play. Remember, always respect their calls because they are the heroes who make sure every move stays in line and every point is fair. To master the rules of volleyball, players must not overlook this point, because you need to respect everyone on the court.

Basic violation in volleyball

Here, we talk about some common mistakes you should avoid on the court. What are the rules of volleyball that we need to watch out for – To ensure fair and competitive play?

Stepping over the boundary line

While serving, stepping over the service line is a violation in volleyball. It will count as a foot fault. So, stay behind the service line until you have served.

Fail ball serve

While serving, if your ball fails to cross over the net, your opponent will get a point. So, aim steady and high and then serve the ball.

Illegal ball contact

Holding, throwing, and double-touching the ball is prohibited in volleyball. Your opposition team will get a point and a serve without making any effort.

Out of rotation Serve

Serving out of rotation is illegal and results in a violation. Here is why it is illegal: serving out of rotation can disrupt the game flow and fairness. So, rotate clockwise to follow the rules, and do not let your opponents gain a free point.

Illegal movement by the back player

The back player cannot attack the ball in the front zone. If a back player steps out of their territory and limitations, it will count as a violation. So, stay back and let the front players do their job.

Conclusion

Now, you have a quick refresher about – what are the rules of volleyball. Review them from time to time to ensure the game is fun, fair, and full of excitement. Furthermore, from serve to rotation and from staying within the boundary line to scoring a point are the backbone of every play. Do not forget – what are the rules of volleyball that you need to follow and the violations that you need to avoid?

If you are a beginner and are confused about which shoes and balls to choose for volleyball. You are free to visit our other blogs, where we can completely guide you through the best products and their pros and cons.

Picture of About David Muse

About David Muse

Hi, I'm David Muse, the founder of Volleyball Spikes. My days are spent with workouts and article writing, mostly for Volleyball Spikes. With 15 years of expertise and a history of competing on an international scale... It's fair to say that my knowledge of volleyball is pretty good.