Spiking Drills for Volleyball

I coached high school volleyball for 17 years. Every player, that I coached, wanted to be able to strongly spike a volleyball. There is nothing so thrilling, than placing a ball solidly on the opponents court or off a defenders hands. This article will provide some lead up drills for spiking a volleyball.

Empty Air Hits
Without the use of any volleyballs, have the player use the three step approach to the net. They approach, jump, arm swing and follow through. As soon as they have finished their landing, they immediately go into a dig or blocking position. Repeat at least twenty times.

Stationary Hits
Using a ball held above and slightly off the net, have the player approach, jump, swing and hit the stationary ball. This is a lot easier than hitting a moving ball. You can use a ball holder or a person holding the ball in an out stretched hand. After a few hits, focus on ball placement to the opposite side.

Toss and Hit
The hitter tosses the ball overhead, steps in, jumps and makes contact with the ball. Their focus should be on contact with the ball through the center of it. Beginners should not worry about where the ball goes. Contacting the ball is more important than control. Control will improve with repetitions.

Partner Toss and Hit
This drill requires a partner. The partner tosses the ball about three feet above the top of the net. The hitter uses the three step approach and hits the ball, at the top of their jump. The height of the toss can be varied. This will help the hitter learn to make adjustments and judgements to their approach and jump.

Ten Spike and Rapid Repetition
Have a basket of ten volleyballs. The drill begins with a fake block at the net. the hitter quickly backs up and prepares for the hit. The tosser tosses ball one into the air and it is hit by the hitter. This is repeated in rapid repetition. As soon as a ball is contacted, the tosser is preparing for the next toss. To keep the hitter honest and moving all the time, place a small piece of tape to the spot the hitter must go to. This can be placed on the court.

These are five very good drills that can be used before combining a spike with other drills. These drills can be used by middle school as well as college. They are an excellent way to progress your hitter to the results you seek.