How to Serve a Volleyball - Overhand

When it comes to volleyball serving is just as important as any other skill. It is crucial that every player knows how to serve a volleyball. If a player misses a serve, that is a point awarded to the other team. The opponent did not have to work for that one point they earned for a missed serve. When the game is within 2 or 3 points, a huge difference in the game may be missed serves. Some teams can give away 4-8 points a game on missed serves alone. It is very important to learn the skill and perfect it.

These instructions are going to be for a regular overhand serve; standing on the ground. First let's work on the toss. If you are right-handed, start with the ball in your left hand. Your left foot should be slightly forward and in line with your left shoulder. Your left toe should be pointing straight toward the other side of the court. When you toss the ball, it should be about 1 foot above your head and should drop in line with your right foot. Toss with your left hand. Toss about 10-15 balls until you can consistently toss the ball.

Next is the arm swing. Bring your right hand back towards your ear (like you are waiving at someone across the net). Your palm should be facing forward - in the direction you'd like the ball to go. Your hand should be wide open and you shall strike the ball with the palm of your hand. The motion will be like this: Toss, step with your left foot, then swing. Toss, step, swing! The step is just one small step forward. Toss the ball with your left hand, step with your left foot and swing in the direction you'd like the ball to go.

Tip: The faster your arms wing is, the faster the ball will go. The faster your hand comes from the side of your face to strike the ball, the faster the ball will travel.