If you are a new volleyball player, you may not even know what positions you play before being asked, “What Volleyball Position Should I Play?”. Tryouts for club volleyball, especially, will usually ask you for which position you are seeking.
You will not be the sole decision maker as to which position you should play. A coach will provide you with guidance along the way, just as they do in most sports. Choosing the right position will allow you to maximize your strengths. You will learn more about those ideas in this article.
In order to understand any of the positions, you need to understand how they work together from a basic perspective.
Best Position in Volleyball
As a result of your athletic skills, your height, and your speed, you will be best suited for the position that you are already adept at. You’ll find that some volleyball skills are naturally better for you than others as you learn the basic skills. It’s normal, and sometimes it helps you choose the right position.
According to this chart, each position requires some of the following traits:
| Position | Quality & Trait [Most Valuable] |
| Setter | Setting control: placing the ball where it is needed by the hitter. Overall ball control: being able to handle both overhand and underhand shots. High Volleyball IQ: players must know everyone’s role in every play. Decision-making: Constantly adapting and making good decisions for the team as a whole. Communications: Plays and signals must be called during rallies. Leadership: Being the coach on the court was very beneficial to this player. |
| Libero | Setting control: placing the ball where it is needed by the hitter. Overall ball control: being able to handle both overhand and underhand shots. High Volleyball IQ: players must know everyone’s role in every play. Decision-making: Constantly adapting and making good decisions for the team as a whole. Communications: Plays and signals must be called during rallies. Leadership: Being the coach on the court was very beneficial to this player. |
| Defensive Specialist | Ball control: They keep the ball in play by covering most of the court on defense. Passing: Having strong passing accuracy is crucial. Speed & Agility: reacting quickly and getting into position quickly. Digging: Being able to read the hitters so as to keep the ball high. Setting skills have an advantage: they cannot attack, so they may assist the setter in bad situations. There is a tendency for shorter players to dominate, but this is not always the case. |
| Middle (Blocker/Hitter) | Hitting: They are known for hitting quick sets and back sets. Blocking: usually blocking the best hitter of the opponent (playing on the left). Having a left-handed approach makes it easier to communicate. Setters may play backup setters when the setter cannot reach the ball. |
| Outside Hitter (Left) | Libero qualities: the role is very similar. Back-row hitting is advantageous: it is challenging to hit in space. |
| Opposite Hitter (Right) | Hitting: They are known for hitting quick sets and back sets. Blocking: usually blocking the best hitter of the opponent (playing on the left).Having a left-handed approach makes it easier to communicate. Setters may play backup setters when the setter cannot reach the ball. |
Your coach, your parents, and your own perception of your volleyball skills should help you determine which is best for you. Do not get too fixated on a particular position when you try out for volleyball. Coaches or clubs may ask what position they’re interested in.
Despite what some people believe, there is no “best” volleyball position. The best volleyball position for you is the one you need to find.
Try different positions along your volleyball journey because you may land on a better team that you never thought of. As a result of playing for different teams and playing different roles, some of the best players have developed into very well-rounded individuals.
You may enjoy reading How Tall Are Middle Blockers In Volleyball?
Best Position for Left Handed Volleyball Players
In volleyball, left-handed players can play any position just like right-handed players but does playing a particular position have any advantage?
As a result of how they square up to the net, right-handed players have an advantage at playing opposite hitters (right-side hitters). Being left-handed can also be an advantage as a setter as doing a setter’s dump or even attacking from a setter’s position will be more natural.
Lefties tend to play on the right side of the field, being the opposite hitter. Right-handed hitters from the left side can hit all angles when they approach from the right side, just as left-handed hitters from the right side can.
In baseball, right-handed hitters (even from the opposite side) are used to being blocked and defended, so having a left-handed hitter changes the game. The ball will not only be better shot by them but it will also be spun differently, which can be hard to compensate for.
You may enjoy reading Volleyball Setter Drills
Best Volleyball Position for Short Players
Those positions that don’t require blocking or heavy hitting are the best volleyball positions for short players. For short players, liberos, defensive specialists, and setters would be the best choices.
Most short players will find it to be the best option since liberos cannot attack at all. Liberos aren’t for everyone. Each team has only one libero or maybe two, but only one can play at a time.
There are few cases where defensive specialists’ height would be a factor. For a DS, being tall is only useful when they are hitting from the back row. When it comes to DS, height doesn’t matter nearly as much as being tall.
Short players are also capable of excelling as setters. When they are in the front-row rotation, they are not very adept at blocking or hitting on occasion. It is primarily the setter’s responsibility to focus on offense. The height that short players can gain from working hard can usually make them less of a liability when blocking.
You may enjoy reading Libero Volleyball Drills
Tips for Each Position
Hitter/Attacker
The hitting and jumping techniques of hitters should be developed so that they can generate explosive power. To become unpredictable against opponents, practice a variety of shots, such as cross-court and line hits.
Setter
Become more coordinated and communicate more effectively with your teammates as a setter. To keep the defense guessing, work on setting from different angles and positions.
Libero/Defensive Specialist
Passing and defensive skills should be improved by liberos. Master diving and rolling techniques as well as reading your opponent’s attacks.
Middle Blocker
The footwork and reaction time of middle blockers need to be improved. Stay disciplined during attacks by your opponents and practice closing blocks.
Opposite Hitter
It is important for opposing hitters to become versatile attackers. Practice hitting from a variety of court positions to develop your skills.
Defensive Specialist
A defensive specialist must be able to pass consistently and dig consistently. Learn to read hitters’ body language so you can anticipate their shots.
You may enjoy reading How Many Sets Are in a Volleyball Game?
Positions on the volleyball court
There are two types of positions in volleyball: offensive and defensive. There are two aspects to this post: your role on the team, and where you stand on the floor. The first is the role that you play on the team. You can learn more about that second kind of position by watching this video.
Do I need to switch volleyball positions to get recruited?
If a coach tells you they don’t really need you and you’ll only be playing the same position you’ve always played, then you have to make a tough decision. Do you think it’s worth it?
You will be asked to consider changing positions by a volleyball coach if you want to make their team, and two factors will determine that: your attachment to your position and your desire to make this particular team.
Is Your Volleyball Position Important to You?
There are times when you can feel like your position is really important, but remember that volleyball is the sport you love. Do you really need to play a specific role so much that you’d stop moving forward and up because you’re unwilling to adapt?
You should remember that coaches can sometimes see in you what you can’t see in yourself. They believe they can transform you into a truly great player at that position even though no one has ever seen that side of you before.
You must also learn to play opposite if they are going to take you since they have too many outside hitters. Moving forward requires all the effort you can muster. Switching isn’t something to be resented, so don’t be that athlete who agrees to switch but resents it afterward.
What is your level of desire to make the volleyball team?
A high school, club team, or college team could be involved. Coaches sometimes tell players they like them, but they are not as good at your position as someone they have already.
Take the time to weigh your options before giving up. Maybe this isn’t that big of a deal if this is a club team and you can join another one. Whether you keep playing volleyball or not depends largely on whether this is your school team or college opportunity. Whenever you are tempted to close a door, I always recommend giving it a try before closing it.
When some of the best high school quarterbacks in their city switched to wide receivers in college, how many of them were the best? When they got to the higher levels, how many different centers had to change positions to play forward or even guard because they were the tallest kid around?
It is important to remember that some of the greatest players have made the transition from one sport to another and gone on to achieve remarkable success.
FAQs
Can I switch positions in volleyball?
Yes, you can switch positions in volleyball, especially if you’ve developed skills that are transferable between positions. Players often transition to different roles as they gain experience and discover new strengths.
Can height determine my volleyball position?
Height can play a role in determining your volleyball position, but it’s not the sole factor. Taller players may find success as hitters or blockers, while shorter players can excel as liberos or defensive specialists. However, skills, agility, and volleyball IQ are equally important in deciding the best fit.
Is the Libero position only for defensive players?
While the Libero position is specialized in defense and passing, it doesn’t mean only defensive players can thrive in this role. Liberos need exceptional passing and defensive skills, but they can still contribute to the offense with their precise passes and ball control.
What if I’m good at both setting and hitting?
Being proficient in both setting and hitting is a valuable asset. If you find yourself skilled in both areas, consider becoming a versatile player who can switch between positions as needed. Your ability to set and hit effectively will make you a valuable asset to the team.
How do I deal with disappointment if I don’t get my preferred position?
It’s natural to feel disappointed if you don’t get your preferred position. However, remember that every position is vital, and you can still make a significant impact regardless of where you play. Embrace the challenge, work hard, and use it as an opportunity to grow and excel in your new role.
Conclusion
Your enjoyment and success in volleyball can be greatly impacted by choosing the right position. Consider your volleyball IQ, your skills, and your physical attributes before making a decision. Your volleyball journey will be much more successful if you are adaptable and willing to learn. You should embrace your chosen position, work hard, and most importantly, have fun!
Additionally, you can learn about Aces in Volleyball, Kills in Volleyball, and Volleyball Setter Workouts to improve your game.
