25 Volleyball Communication Terms for Effective On-Court Strategy

Elevate your game with volleyball communication terms for specific positions, non-verbal cues and tips for effective on-court communication in competition.

Volleyball Communication Terms: Players who don't communicate with their teammates on the court handicap and hamper their team's ability to win. (Ralph Arvesen)

Effective communication is a crucial aspect of volleyball that separates good players from great ones.

Using specific volleyball communication terms and phrases on the court allows players to convey information quickly, avoid confusion, and make split-second decisions.

In this article, I'll explore the essential volleyball communication terms and phrases that every player should know to improve their team's performance and increase their chances of winning.

One of the most basic yet essential volleyball communication terms is "mine."

Using specific volleyball communication terms and phrases on the court allows players to convey information quickly, avoid confusion, and make split-second decisions.

Players use this term to call for the ball when they intend to play it, letting their teammates know that they are taking responsibility for the next hit.

This simple word helps prevent confusion and collisions on the court, ensuring that the team works together seamlessly.

Directional terms such as "left," "right," "back," and "short" are crucial volleyball communication terms that help players orient themselves and their teammates on the court.

When a player calls "left" or "right," they indicate the direction of the ball's trajectory, allowing their teammates to adjust their positioning accordingly.

Similarly, "back" and "short" refer to the depth of the ball, with "back" indicating a deep ball and "short" signaling a ball that will land closer to the net.

"Out" is another essential volleyball communication term that players use to indicate that the ball will land outside the court boundaries. (Houston Baptist players Calling The Ball out Michael E. Johnston photo)

"Out" is another essential volleyball communication term that players use to indicate that the ball will land outside the court boundaries.

When a player calls "out," their teammates know that they do not need to pursue the ball, saving valuable energy and allowing them to focus on the next play.

This term is particularly important during serve receive, as it helps the team avoid wasting effort on balls that will result in a point for the opposing team.

Communication in Volleyball: I didn't share any information with teammates which didn't help them understand what I was thinking or what I intended to do. (Neon Tommy photo)

The term "help" is used when a player is unsure if they can successfully play the ball or when they need assistance from a teammate to get a ball they cant or replay a ball that they cant get to.

By calling "help," the player alerts their teammates to be ready to step in and make a play if necessary.

This volleyball communication term is important for maintaining a cohesive defense and making sure that no ball drops between players.

Numerical terms like "one," "two," and "three" are volleyball communication terms used to indicate the number of hits remaining before the ball must go over the net.

"One" means that the player intends to send the ball directly over the net, while "two" and "three" signal to teammates that they should be ready for additional hits before an attack.

If your coach says "Watch for the setter to tip over on one" this means...players in defense should watch for the setter to set the ball over the net or dump the ball over the net instead of setting the ball to one of their hitters as a way to trick the defense. 

These communication terms help teams stay coordinated in their offense while maintaining a structured approach to each rally.

Communication in volleyball. Volleyball is a team sport, not an individual sport. Players who don't communicate with their teammates on the court handicap and hamper their team's ability to win.

Volleyball Communication Skills: Players who don't communicate with their teammates on the court handicap and hamper their team's ability to win.

"Bounce" and "tip" are volleyball communication terms used to describe specific types of offensive plays.

"Bounce" refers to an attack that is hit with force, by a hitter who uses a quick arm swing that causes the ball to bounce off the ground quickly and making it difficult for the opposing team to defend.

"Tip," on the other hand, describes a soft shot placed strategically into an open area of the opponent's court.

By calling out these terms, players let their teammates know the type of attack being executed, so they can position themselves in the court for the oncoming attack.

In addition to general volleyball communication terms, players also use position-specific terms to give information quickly.

For example, "setter out" is used to tell the setter that they should not attempt to play the ball, while "middle in" instructs the middle blocker to move closer to the net for a quick attack.

Other position-specific terms include "outside back" (telling the outside hitter to move back) and "libero up" (indicating that the libero is moving forward to play a short ball).

By using these terms, players can make quick adjustments and coordinate their movements more effectively.

The setter holds up four fingers to the left side hitter, then one forefinger to her middle hitter then all five fingers they'll hold up to her right side hitter to call the 4-1-5 offensive volleyball play. 

While verbal communication is crucial in volleyball, non-verbal techniques like hand signals and gestures can also play a significant role in effective on-court communication.

For example, players may use a closed fist to indicate a strong hit or an open hand to signal a soft shot.

Pointing to a specific area of the court can communicate where a player intends to hit the ball.

Setters often use hand signals behind their back to indicate the type of set they will deliver to the hitters.

Hands Signals For Setters in Volleyball

Hand signal for a one or a quick set in the middle. Hand signal "hang loose" often used by setters in volleyball to call a back One.

Hand signal often used by setters in volleyball for a "Shoot set" or a "Go" set. Hand signal often used by setters in volleyball for a "Shoot set" or a "Go" set.

By combining verbal and non-verbal communication, teams can create a more comprehensive and efficient system for sharing information on the court.

When a setter calls "one" before setting the ball, the hitters know to prepare for a quick attack, increasing the chances of catching the opposing team off guard.

Using volleyball communication terms effectively can directly impact a team's success on the court.

For example, if a player calls "out" and their teammate trusts the call, they can let the ball drop without fear of losing a point.

When a setter calls "one" before setting the ball, the hitters know to prepare for a quick attack, increasing the chances of catching the opposing team off guard.

Effective communication also helps players avoid errors, such as collisions or double hits, which can cost the team valuable points.

By consistently using volleyball communication terms, teams can create a more coordinated and efficient offense and defense, ultimately leading to more successful plays and points.

Volleyball Communication Words: How are teammates supposed to know "who" is going to do "what" if members of the team stay silent while the ball is in play.

Incorporating volleyball communication terms into practice sessions is essential for building a strong team dynamic and making sure that players are comfortable using these terms in high-pressure game situations.

Coaches can create drills that focus on specific communication skills, such as calling for the ball or using directional terms.

During scrimmages, players should be encouraged to use volleyball communication terms consistently, even if they make mistakes.

Reviewing game footage and analyzing communication breakdowns can also help teams identify areas for improvement.

By prioritizing communication in training and matches, teams can develop a more cohesive and effective on-court strategy, leading to better performance and more success in competition.

Good volleyball communication words used on the court during a game are crucial to your winning success. (Big East Butler coach talks to her setter)

Learning volleyball communication terms and phrases is essential for any player looking to elevate their game and contribute to their team's success. 

By using terms like "mine," directional cues, "out," "help," numerical hits, and offensive play calls, players can communicate with their teammates, make quick decisions, and adapt to the fast-paced nature of the sport. 

As you continue to develop your volleyball skills, make sure to prioritize communication and incorporate these essential terms into your on-court vocabulary.

With practice and repetition, effective communication will become second nature, leading to improved team performance and more victories on the court.

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