Setting is a foundational skill in volleyball, often determining the success of an offensive play. For setters, the ability to deliver precise, consistent sets under various conditions is critical to creating scoring opportunities and maintaining the team’s rhythm. These volleyball setting drills use innovative tools like the Net Wall Graphic and Trainer+ to refine key skills such as footwork, tempo, and adaptability. Whether handling out-of-system passes or jump-setting on the move, these drills prepare setters to perform confidently in high-pressure game scenarios.
About KIVA
The Kentucky Indiana Volleyball Academy (KIVA) is synonymous with excellence in youth volleyball. Known for developing elite athletes and fostering a love for the game, KIVA has consistently produced players who excel at both the collegiate and professional levels. Leading the charge are coaches Anne Kordes and Melissa Starck-Bean, two volleyball legends whose expertise and passion for the sport shine through in every drill they create. Their dedication to innovation and player development has positioned KIVA as one of the premier volleyball clubs in the nation.
Why Is This Drill Important?
Game scenarios often require setters to work off imperfect passes. This drill improves their ability to adjust to passes, maintain composure, and deliver accurate sets under pressure.
Drill Setup:
Use balls from a passer or dig to simulate game-like scenarios.
Place three players in the back row:
Right backs drop left to angle the ball in front of the setter.
Middle backs drop left to angle or pass directly to the setter.
Left backs drop right to do the same.
Execution:
Passers focus on technique, sending controlled passes toward the setter.
Start slow to ensure accuracy and proper footwork.
Gradually increase tempo as setters gain consistency.
Key Points:
Balls should consistently be angled or placed directly in front of the setter’s head.
Allow time for the setter to reset and prepare for the next pass.
Drill 1: Setting Reps
Setup:
Player Position: Setters start at the target zone on the Net Wall Graphic.
Equipment: Incorporate the Trainer+ for target practice.
Execution:
Stationary Sets: Begin with stationary sets, using the Net Wall Graphic to visualize accurate target zones.
Progressions:
Toss balls to simulate 2-step and 3-step approaches to sets.
Practice “out-of-system” (OOS) sets by replicating challenging passes (e.g., off the 10-foot line or toward pins).
Work on setting against the grain by targeting the farthest zone from the pass.
Targeted Practice:
Adjust the Trainer+ to focus on outside sets, quicks, and backrow attacks.
Use the graphic to refine hand positioning, body posture, and weight transfer.
Key Points:
Focus on consistent set location, trajectory, and tempo.
Emphasize left-right footwork for stability and control.
Work through various distances and scenarios to simulate game-like challenges.
Drill 2: Setting Technique Adjustments
Squaring Up to the Pin:
Always square to the outside pin to maintain visibility and setting options (middle, outside, or back row).
Handling Out-of-System Balls:
For balls passed off the net or behind the setter, maintain tempo and create hittable balls inside the antennas.
Aim for higher sets that stay in system or provide a hittable option.
Tips for Setters:
Avoid pushing the ball wide; aim to keep it inside for easier tracking by hitters.
Focus on footwork and positioning to adjust quickly to out-of-system passes.
Drill 3: Jump Setting Progression
Progression Steps:
Start with perfect passes into jump sets.
Gradually move off the net:
Perfect pass → Jump set.
One step off → Jump set.
Three steps off → Jump set.
Goal:
Train setters to jump set effectively from all distances, ensuring the ball remains hittable and inside the antennas.
Drill 4: Setting Off a Pass
Setup:
Use balls from a passer or dig to simulate game-like scenarios.
Place three players in the back row:
Right backs drop left to angle the ball in front of the setter.
Middle backs drop left to angle or pass directly to the setter.
Left backs drop right to do the same.
Execution:
Passers focus on technique, sending controlled passes toward the setter.
Start slow to ensure accuracy and proper footwork.
Gradually increase tempo as setters gain consistency.
Key Points:
Balls should consistently be angled or placed directly in front of the setter’s head.
Allow time for the setter to reset and prepare for the next pass.
Conclusion
These volleyball skill development drills are designed to enhance setter technique, footwork, and decision-making, even in out-of-system situations. By focusing on tempo, squaring up, and consistent footwork, setters can improve their ability to deliver hittable balls and support the team’s offense. Tools like the Net Wall Graphic provide clear visual aids for target zones, while the Trainer+ volleyball training tool offers unmatched versatility for honing precision and adaptability. Incorporate these tools and drills into your training program to elevate your setters’ game and give your team a competitive edge.
The KIVA Advantage
Anne Kordes and Melissa Starck-Bean bring decades of experience and a shared vision for developing well-rounded athletes. Their drills emphasize not just skill development but also situational awareness and adaptability—qualities that set players apart at the highest levels of competition. With tools like the Net Wall Graphic and Trainer+, these drills are designed to push athletes to new heights.
Take Your Training to the Next Level
Whether you’re coaching elite players or working with up-and-coming athletes, the Net Wall Graphic and Trainer+ are essential tools for setting success. Incorporate this KIVA drill into your training program and watch your setters elevate their game.
Ready to transform your training? Explore the Net Wall Graphic and Trainer+ today and give your athletes the edge they need to succeed.
