Introduction to Setting

This lesson focuses on teaching youth volleyball players the fundamentals of setting, emphasizing proper hand positioning and footwork, and incorporates partner drills to enhance skill development.

Lesson Overview

In this engaging session, young athletes embark on a journey to explore the fundamental skill of setting in volleyball. The lesson aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the essential techniques required for effective setting, with a particular focus on hand positioning and footwork. By the end of this session, participants should have a solid foundation in these critical skills, allowing them to execute sets with greater precision and confidence.

The primary goals of this lesson include developing proper hand placement and establishing effective footwork patterns. Through interactive partner drills, students will have the opportunity to practice and refine these techniques in a supportive environment. This hands-on approach not only fosters skill development but also encourages teamwork and communication, essential components of success in volleyball.

Key Objectives

Key Objectives
  • Introduce youth volleyball players to the fundamental skill of setting, focusing on proper hand positioning and footwork to ensure effective and accurate sets.
  • Emphasize the importance of safety by teaching players how to maintain balance and control during setting drills to prevent injury.
  • Prepare players by demonstrating the correct techniques and providing opportunities for practice through partner drills, encouraging peer learning and constructive feedback.
  • Develop players' confidence in performing setting skills under pressure by incorporating progressive challenges and game-like scenarios.
Equipment Required
  • Volleyballs (sufficient quantity for partner drills)
  • Volleyball net and court
  • Cones or markers for footwork drills
  • Whistle for instructor to manage drills and transitions
  • Scoreboard or timer for game-like scenarios and challenges
Step 1 of 5

Warm-Up and Stretching

10 minutes

Begin the lesson with a series of warm-up exercises to prepare the students for volleyball practice. The warm-up should include dynamic stretches and light cardio activities to ensure the players are ready for more intensive activities.

  • Jogging: Have students jog around the court to increase their heart rate and warm up their muscles.
  • Arm Circles: Perform arm circles to loosen up the shoulder joints. Start with small circles and gradually increase to larger circles, moving both forwards and backwards.
  • Leg Swings: Standing on one leg, swing the opposite leg back and forth to warm up the hip joints. Repeat on both sides.
  • High Knees: Encourage students to perform high knees, focusing on bringing their knees up to waist height, to engage the core and leg muscles.
  • Side Shuffles: Conduct side shuffles across the court to enhance lateral movement and coordination.
  • Dynamic Lunges: Instruct students to perform walking lunges, focusing on keeping their back straight and engaging their core.

Conclude the warm-up with a brief stretch focusing on the major muscle groups used in volleyball, ensuring players are ready for the technical skills practice that follows.

Step 2 of 5

Introduction to Setting Technique

15 minutes

In this activity, students learn the foundational elements of setting a volleyball. Emphasize proper hand positioning and footwork to ensure correct form and technique.

  • Demonstration: Begin by showing the students the correct hand positioning for setting. Hands should form a triangle with thumbs and index fingers, positioned just above the forehead.
  • Footwork: Explain the importance of foot positioning. Feet should be shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, with the weight balanced on the balls of the feet.
  • Form Practice: Have students mimic your movements, ensuring they maintain correct form. Walk around and provide individual feedback as needed.
  • Repetition: Encourage students to practice the hand positioning and footwork in place, focusing on smooth, fluid motions.

Reinforce the importance of keeping eyes on the ball and maintaining a steady posture during each set. Highlight how proper technique can improve overall performance and control during games.

Step 3 of 5

Individual Setting Practice

10 minutes

Guide students through solo setting drills, focusing on maintaining proper hand positioning and consistent footwork. Emphasize the importance of body control and coordination in executing accurate sets.

  • Begin with students standing in place, practicing the correct hand positioning by forming a triangle with their thumbs and index fingers.
  • Encourage students to visualize the ball's trajectory and practice setting imaginary balls to refine their technique.
  • Introduce a light toss from a coach or assistant, allowing each student to practice using their hands to gently push the ball upwards.
  • Focus on footwork by having students shuffle side-to-side, simulating movement towards the ball before setting it.
  • Provide feedback on hand positioning and footwork, offering individualized tips for improvement.

Conclude this practice by emphasizing the importance of repetition and precision, encouraging students to continue refining their setting skills.

Step 4 of 5

Partner Setting Drills

15 minutes

Organize students into pairs to practice setting back and forth. This activity focuses on enhancing communication and refining technique through feedback. Follow these steps:

  • Have students stand approximately 10 feet apart from their partner.
  • Ensure each pair has a volleyball.
  • Instruct one student to start by setting the ball to their partner, aiming for a consistent height and trajectory.
  • The receiving partner catches the ball, provides feedback on the set (e.g., height, accuracy), and then sets it back.
  • Encourage students to communicate after each set, discussing what went well and what can be improved.
  • Rotate partners every few minutes to experience different styles and feedback.

Remind students to focus on maintaining proper hand positioning and footwork throughout the activity. Emphasize the importance of communication and teamwork in improving their setting skills.

Step 5 of 5

Setting in Game Situations

20 minutes

Students engage in a modified volleyball game that emphasizes setting skills. The aim is to apply the techniques learned in a dynamic, game-like environment.

  • Divide students into two teams.
  • Set up a half-court volleyball match to focus on quick transitions and accurate setting.
  • Encourage each team to utilize three hits: a bump, a set, and a spike.
  • Designate one player per team as the primary setter, rotating roles to give all students the opportunity to practice setting under pressure.
  • Provide feedback on hand positioning and footwork during each play.
  • Encourage communication between players to ensure effective teamwork and successful sets.

Conclude the activity by discussing the importance of setting in game situations and how it contributes to overall team strategy.