Volleyball Movement Drills For Digging Like This Footwork Pattern Drill Is Done in Warmups Without A Ball 

In our warmup drill progression I have players do volleyball movement drills for digging footwork.

This is a progressive choreographed "dance", that starts simple and gets more complex with specific patterns that cover three types of digging scenarios you may have to (or not) move your feet for. 

I created these three volleyball movement drills for digging footwork years ago because when I first started coaching in Vegas players hardly ever hit the floor or if they did they didn't do it in a way they were comfortable with. 

As a tall pro player I spent a lifetime learning how to hit the floor to dig a ball and quickly get back up and keep playing so its a passion of mine to teach  how to do this to young players so they become fearless defensive players who can run down any ball and dig it up fearlessly without getting hurt when they land on the court floor. 

The first way to hit the floor to dig...is NOT to take a step but collapse to get underneath a ball that's coming at you very quickly and about to land 1-2 feet ..in front of you.

So all you have time to do is collapse quickly underneath the ball and sprawl to the floor to dig it. 

The second way to dig a ball is to take one step to laterally extend your body to one hand or two hand dig a hard hit that's about to land on your right side or left side of your body. 

Volleyball Movement Drills 
 3 Steps And Barrel Roll - Two Player Pattern

The third way is to learn and do the footwork to cross the court to dig A Ball that's 3-5 steps away from you. 

It takes three steps to cover the court if you work on it in practice like my players do...3 - 4 steps and from the backcourt you can run while staying low and get to a tip that's about to land behind the block on the ten foot line.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Hard Driven Spike in Volleyball

Q: What is a hard driven spike in volleyball?

A: A hard driven spike in volleyball refers to a powerful and aggressive offensive attack shot made by a player to score a point. The player jumps into the air and strikes the ball forcefully downward towards the opponent's court with the intention of making it difficult for the opposing team to defend or return the ball.

Q: What are the key elements of a successful hard driven spike?

A: Successful hard driven spikes require a combination of good timing, technique, and power. The player must approach the ball with a strong spike approach, jump explosively, make clean contact with the ball using a solid arm swing, and aim for specific court zones to maximize their chances of scoring a point.

Q: What court zones do hitters aim for when executing a hard driven spike?

A: Hitters aim for different court zones based on their position and the type of shot they intend to make. Generally, outside hitters aim for zones 4 and 5 on the opposing team's court, targeting the areas near the sideline and backline. Right side hitters usually aim for zones 2 and 4, while middle hitters aim for zones 2 and 3.

Q: How can I improve my ability to execute a hard driven spike?

A: To improve your hard driven spike, focus on developing your overall strength, vertical jump, and arm swing technique. Regularly practice your spike approach, timing, and footwork. Work on strengthening your core, legs, and shoulder muscles through specific exercises. Seek feedback from coaches or trainers and practice with a supportive team environment.

Q: Is the hard driven spike only for front row players?

A: No, the hard driven spike is primarily associated with front row players who are typically the primary attackers. However, backrow players can also execute a hard driven spike from behind the ten-foot line as long as they stay within the legal boundaries. This is commonly known as a backrow attack.

Q: What are some strategies for defending against a hard driven spike?

A: Defending against a hard driven spike requires good positioning, anticipation, and quick reactions. The defending team should form a solid block at the net to obstruct the hitter's attacking angles. Backrow defenders should be prepared to dig the ball, using proper footwork and body positioning to receive the hit with control. Communication and teamwork are also essential in coordinating defensive movements.

Q: Can a hard driven spike land out of bounds and still count as a point?

A: No, if a hard driven spike lands outside the boundaries of the opponent's court, it is considered out-of-bounds. As a result, the opponent will be awarded a point and the serving team will lose their serve. Hitters need to aim for the appropriate court zones to ensure the ball lands in play and has a chance to score a point.

Q: What are the common mistakes players make when attempting a hard driven spike?

A: Some common mistakes include improper footwork and approach, mistiming the jump, poor arm swing technique, and hitting the ball too high or too low. It's important to practice and refine these elements to maximize the effectiveness of your spike.

Q: Can players perform a hard driven spike with both hands?

A: No, a hard driven spike is typically executed with one hand. The other hand is used as a guide or balance during the approach and jump. Using both hands to strike the ball simultaneously is considered illegal in volleyball.

Q: Are there any specific drills that can help improve my hard driven spike?

A: Yes, there are several drills that can enhance your hard driven spike. Some examples include practicing spike approaches and footwork, hitting against a block, working on different types of hits like line shots and cross-court shots, and incorporating game-like situations in your drills to simulate real match scenarios.

Q: Can height or vertical jump limit someone's ability to perform a hard driven spike?

A: While height and vertical jump can have an impact, they are not the only determining factors. Proper technique, timing, and power are also crucial. Players of all heights can excel at executing hard driven spikes by focusing on their strengths and working on aspects like arm swing speed and accuracy. Additionally, improving overall fitness and strength can contribute to an increase in vertical jump height.

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From Lady Vol to Legend: Coach April Honored At UTK Champions Weekend

Lady Vol volleyball legend and record holder Coach April Chapple a University of Tennessee, Knoxville Hall of Fame Inductee, 3-time All American, 3-time SEC Champion, SEC Tournament MVP, 2-time All SEC Team is celebrated with her 1984 SEC champion teammates at Neyland Stadium during Champions Weekend on November 1-2, 2024.

• the first First Round Draft Pick for the first American pro indoor women's league
• named to the first First Team All-Pro team for Major League Volleyball in USA volleyball history 
• former USA National team member
• one of the few American women players named as an Italian Pro League D-I Championship Finalist, Italian Cup Finalist and Cup of Cups Tournament Finalist

April Chapple The first First round Draft Pick For Major League Volleyball the first American Women's Pro League Honored At Athlete Unlimited Pro Volleyball Match

Coach April's 2025-26    Private and Semi private Volleyball Training

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Invest in your improvement while preepping for your next level and college goals while working hard and training smart.   

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