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Here is a variation of volleyball devised mainly for the well-conditioned, skilled, and most dedicated players. The rules of play are generally the same as they are in six on a side. It is easy to imagine the speed,
anticipatory skill, individual techniques, and team play necessary just to keep the ball in play. After all, two players are covering an area more frequently patrolled by six.
To reduce the pressure on the players somewhat, the number of points needed to win is reduced from fifteen to eleven. Sometimes the court is shortened by 5 feet on each side, thus reducing the area to be covered. But
even with the reduction of court size and the number of points needed to win, the game is strenuous, demanding all of the skills and court sense possible.
Naturally, the tactics for doubles is far different from
the normal game. The desired sequence of play is the familiar pass-set-spike pattern. The player receiving the serve must pass the ball to his partner, who sets the ball for the original receiver, who has now run up
to the net to become a spiker and spike the ball.
In doubles play, the serve takes on greater importance. Power is not as important as is accurate placement. The objective of the serve - is always, but even more critical in doubles - is to serve the ball accurately
to spots on the court that will preclude the establishment of the pass-set-spike sequence. Deep serves can interrupt the sequence as can serves that draw the receiver far to his right or left.
On defense, both players must play back for effective coverage, the idea being to play the ball in front of you. Therefore, blocking is virtually nonexistent in doubles.
Doubles can also be a valuable tool for developing individual skills, court sense, anticipation, and physical conditioning. Better players can use doubles as pressure drills during and after practice and in the
off-season to maintain fitness and skill levels.
Details:
- Number of players: two per side.
- When receiving the ball, a player must pass it to his partner before the ball can be returned over the net.
- The rally continues until one team misplays the ball or until one player does not pass the ball to his partner.
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Doubles Volleyball
