Volleyball training for kids: Teaching the fundamentals of attacking

Attacking, also known as spiking or hitting, is a fundamental skill in volleyball that can dramatically influence the outcome of a game. For youth players, mastering this skill involves progressing through two key stages: Hitting without jumping (down ball) and jumping with either a 2-step modified or 3-step full approach. This blog and video provides a structured approach for coaches to effectively teach attacking, emphasizing the importance of technique, progression, and consistent practice.

Stage 1: Down-Ball (Hitting Without Jumping)

Objective: Develop proper arm swing and body positioning while standing on the floor.

1. Puppet Position and Arm Swing:
   • Begin with players standing still in a 1/4 (quarter) turn.
   • Teach them the “puppet position” where their arms are raised as if they are in the final phase of a swing.
   • Focus on a fluid arm swing motion to build muscle memory.
2. Consistent tosses:
   • Have parents or coaches provide consistent tosses that land directly in front of the player. This helps the player practice correct body and arm positioning.
3. Upper body movement with mini footballs:
   • Use mini footballs/tennis balls/puffers to develop a strong arm swing.
   • Players start in the puppet position and throw the football/tennis ball/puffer over the net, focusing on a 1/4 turn position and a 4-count arm swing.
4. Footwork Integration:
   • Gradually introduce footwork, starting with basic steps to position the body correctly for the swing.
   • Emphasize balance and coordination between the footwork and arm swing.

Stage 2: 2-Step Modified Approach (Introduction to Jumping)

Objective: Integrate footwork synchronization and timing with the arm swing, adding a slight jump.

1. Footwork and timing:
   • Teach the 2-step modified approach.
   • Focus on the timing of the footwork with the arm swing to ensure coordination and balance.
2. Consistent tosses for jumping:
   • Tosses should be directly above the player and slightly over their hitting arm. This helps the player isolate the jump, incorporating the backswing, forward swing, and the final 4-count arm swing.
3. Parent / Player involvement:
   • Ensure players/coaches and parents provide accurate and consistent tosses to facilitate proper jump mechanics.

Stage 3: Full 3-Step Approach (Advanced Jumping and Hitting)

Objective: Develop speed, weight transfer, and explosive jumping for maximum reach and power.

1. Footwork and speed:
   • Introduce the full 3-step approach, emphasizing quick and coordinated steps.
   • Teach players to use their arms to help transfer weight and gain speed.
2. Explosive jumping:

• Focus on the final step, an explosive take-off, reaching and contacting at the highest possible point for the hit.
• Ensure the player maintains proper form throughout the jump and swing (backswing, upswing and arm swing).

Age-Specific Focus

Ages 4-6: Prioritize down-ball drills to build foundational skills without the complexity of jumping.
Ages 7-8: Introduce the 2-step modified approach as players develop strength and coordination.
Ages 8-11: Gradually work on all attacking aspects, preparing players for the complete 3-step approach.

Key Considerations for Effective Attacking

1. Solid passing and setting:
   • Emphasize the importance of a good pass and a consistent set, as these create optimal opportunities for attacking.
2. Consistent practice:
   • Regular practice and drills are crucial for developing and refining attacking skills.
   • Encourage players to practice at home, using drills like throwing a tennis ball or puffer to maintain their technique.
3. Fun and engagement:
   • Keep the training sessions fun and engaging to foster a love for the game and motivate young players to improve.

A final thought

Attacking in volleyball is a complex skill that requires patience, practice, and proper technique. By following a structured progression, youth coaches can help players develop into confident and effective attackers. Focus on building a solid foundation, progressing gradually, and maintaining consistent practice. With the right approach, young players will improve their attacking skills and enjoy the exciting journey of learning and mastering one of volleyball’s most dynamic skills.

For a short overview on what to emphasize when teaching young players to serve, watch the video.

For a comprehensive course on teaching volleyball to kids aged 4-11, check out Ruth Nelson’s BYOP® 101 and Home Training Program Series™ Online Courses, available on the Art of Coaching Volleyball website.

Ruth Nelson is a former USA Team player, teacher, and coach at the collegiate, national, and professional levels. For the past 23 years, she has focused on and created innovative programs for ages 10 and under that engage parents alongside their children in training (Bring Your Own Parent Program – BYOP®) as well as the GoKids Youth Sports™ Certification program and the 24/7 Virtual RNN Sports Gym™.