Volleyball Setters vs. Passers Game

This volleyball drill creates a fun game scenario where one team can only set and the other can only pass, improving control and teamwork under scoring pressure.

Volleyball Setters vs. Passers Game - Volleyball drill court diagram
Sport Focus Volleyball
Duration 10–15 Min
Intensity Medium
Views 36,077

Drill Objective

This drill sharpens ball control and teamwork by restricting each team to one skill: passing or setting. It emphasizes accuracy, communication, and creative play while simulating game-like scoring pressure.

Drill Setup & Court Layout

  • Players: Two teams of 6 per side
  • Coach: Positioned with volleyballs to initiate play
  • Court: Full court with net
  • Equipment: Volleyballs

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Coach designates one team as passers only and the other team as setters only.
  2. The coach enters the ball with a toss to start play.
  3. Teams must attempt to use all three touches before sending the ball over the net.
    The passing team uses only forearm passes.
    The setting team uses only overhead passes.
  4. Rally is played out normally, with scoring as in a real game.
  5. After a set time or score goal, switch team roles so both practice passing and setting.
  6. Suggested reps: Play games to 15 points, or run for 12–15 minutes total.

Variations & Progressions

  • Start with a serve instead of a coach’s toss for advanced players.
  • Adjust restrictions by allowing one touch of the opposite skill per rally.
  • Play shorter games (to 7 or 10 points) for quicker rotations.

Key Coaching Points

  • Encourage teams to use all three contacts for better control.
  • Passers must focus on low, controlled platforms.
  • Setters should work on consistent hands and high release.
  • Reinforce communication and movement to adjust to different ball locations.
  • Common Game Situation: Reinforces ball control discipline and teamwork by exaggerating single-skill situations that transfer to serve, receive, and transition rallies.

This is a fun, competitive ball control game that keeps players engaged while sharpening both passing and setting under pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age group and skill level is Volleyball Setters vs. Passers Game best suited for?

This drill is versatile and can be used for youth, middle school, high school, and club players. Coaches can adjust difficulty by altering entry speed, target accuracy zones, or introducing competitive scoring.

How many players and volleyballs are needed for this drill?

This drill is adaptable for small groups (2–6 players) up to a full team rotation. Having at least 4–6 volleyballs on hand helps maintain high repetitions and minimal standing time.

What is the primary coaching focus during Volleyball Setters vs. Passers Game?

Encourage teams to use all three contacts for better control. Passers must focus on low, controlled platforms. Setters should work on consistent hands and high release. Reinforce communication and movement to adjust to different ball locations. C...