How to Set a Volleyball

By Peter-Daniel

  A set - the act of snapping the ball upward with two hands to set up a team mate for a spike. It's the hardest of the fundamental volleyball skills to learn and master.

Step1:
Remember that the first contact when receiving a serve is usually a bump, or pass, to the setter (normally positioned near the net to the right of center court), so always anticipate receiving the ball if you've been designated as this player.

Step2:
Intercept the pass at the net (if it's a good pass). Make contact with the ball about 1 foot above your head.

Step3:
Hold your hands above your forehead with your thumbs and index fingers nearly touching, making a diamond shape, with the rest of your fingers spread open.

Step4: Make sure to keep your Knees Bent!!! Always......

Step:5
Push up with your legs and arms, snapping the ball upward with your hands in the direction in which you'd like it to go (as though you're Superman flying). Ideally, this causes the ball to 'hang' in the air without spinning, resting at the peak of its flight in the perfect position for the hitter to hammer away.

Goal:
The basic idea is to set the ball on the side of the hitter so it is about 1-4 feet above the net.

Note:
Always set your hitter about 3 feet away from the net so he/she is able to hit the volleyball without touching the net or getting blocked.

Note:
While setting, you need to make enough contact to control the direction of your set without allowing the ball to come to rest (however momentarily), which is illegal and known as a 'lift.' You also must make contact with both hands simultaneously or risk getting called