Volleyball

One team begins a 'rally' by serving the ball, which is done by tossing or releasing it and then hitting it with a hand or arm. The opposing team are then allowed a maximum of three 'touches' to return the ball over the net, and play continues.

Any member of the receiving team may touch the ball. A player cannot touch the ball twice consecutively but could have the first and third touch before the ball is returned. If a player violates this rule, then they concede the point.

A traditional match is the best of five sets, with each set won by the first team to reach 25 points provided they are ahead by a minimum of two points. If the match does go to five sets, the final set is often the first to reach 15 points, rather than 25.

Primary formats

The Volleyball Primary Challenge is divided into four separate challenges:

• Keepy Uppy
• Can You Dig It?
• To Me, To You
• Volley 2s

See the Primary Volleyball Formats card below for top tips on how to run these challenges.

Secondary formats

For secondary settings, volleyball is best played in either Volley3s (suitable for under 13s) or Volley4s (under 15s) matches. Guides on how to play these formats are available here.

SEND formats

Inclusive sitting volleyball is a dynamic and exciting game that enables SEN/disabled (SEND) and non-SEND players to play and compete against each other.

• Teams are made up of three, four, or six players
• Each team should include a minimum of two SEND players throughout the game
• SEND players are defined as SEND pupils who cannot easily access mainstream volleyball.

See the Primary Volleyball Formats card below for top tips on how to deliver SEND-inclusive volleyball matches.

Equipment needed

• Volleyballs (or balls suitable to competency/age range)
• Net
• Suitable playing space

Looking for additional volleyball equipment? Visit Volleyball England's store for the full range.