HOW EACH POSITION CONTRIBUTES
OUTSIDE HITTER
The player in left front. This player is typically a power hitter and is a go-to for setters when passes are not perfect because of the angle of their attack options. Must have good stamina to deal with the high volume of sets they receive. Frequently plays all-around, but may sub out for a defensive specialist or switch with a libero in back row.
MIDDLE BLOCKER
The player in the middle front. Participates in every block when possible, and has the most difficult attack to defend against. Does not get set often when the pass is not perfect because of the poor attack angles. Usually switches with liberos in back row. Liberos may only serve in one rotation, so in this case at least one middle hitter will need to serve before switching out of back row.
RIGHT SIDE HITTER/OPPOSITE HITTER
The player in right front. This player is another go-to for passes which are not perfect, though does not get set as often at younger ages when setters are still learning how to set back. Usually left-handed to increase easy attack options. Puts up a big block. Typically subs out for a setter or defensive specialist in back row.
SETTER
Most often the player in right back, but may play right front as well depending on the type of offense the team is running. This player runs the offense and must make each pass “hittable” no matter where it goes. Must make snap decisions and even a small mistake can cost their team a point. May play all-around or get subbed out in front row for a right side hitter/opposite hitter.
LIBERO
The player in the different colored uniform. Usually plays left back or middle back. Each team may have two. Typically the team’s most consistent passer and a leader on defense. Expects every ball (and usually gets most of them). Has a number of rules restricting them from setting or hitting in different situations, and therefore most frequently only passes the ball. New liberos may get out of rotation while learning the position. Does not play front row and can run on and off the court instead of formally subbing in. Usually plays more than their teammates unless splitting time with another libero.
DEFENSIVE SPECIALIST/DS
May play in any back row position, though often plays left back or middle back. Specializes in passing and must find a good balance between aggressive defense and trust with their team’s libero. DS’s, as they are often called, must be mentally strong. This player is essential in defense and serve receive, but often gets less credit than they deserve. Usually subs in for a front row player and serves, but most often only plays back row.
NOTES
Players must stay in a certain rotation and may not “release” to their positions until after the service contact is made. To identify positions, watch where players move to after their team serves or after returning the serve. This is called their “base” position. Most players will specialize in either front row or back row and will sub out for half of the 6 rotations a team uses. Individual playing time is determined by rotations on the court, and not on time. However, time on the court is influenced by the number of points scored. Depending on the lineup, it may or may not be beneficial to have certain players start.