Trainer+ Drills with Salima Rockwell

The Sports Imports Trainer+ Volleyball Target—commonly known in the industry as the “Setter’s Eye”—is the most versatile volleyball training tool available. Featuring three interchangeable heads and a Vertec attachment, it offers endless opportunities to hone skills for players at any level. Sports Imports collaborated with Salima Rockwell, Head Women’s Volleyball Coach at the University of Notre Dame, to develop exclusive drills that help setters, and all players maximize their performance using the Trainer+. 

Why the Trainer+ is Essential
The Trainer+ is designed for precise volleyball setting drills and target practice, enabling coaches to develop key skills like tempo, body positioning, and defensive touch. This pro-grade volleyball training equipment comes with two target rings, a durable base, and easy mobility, allowing coaches to set it up wherever it’s needed. With attachments like the Vertec for jump training, the Trainer+ adapts to meet any team’s needs, making it a top choice for schools, clubs, and college programs nationwide. 

Meet Salima Rockwell
Salima Rockwell has established herself as a prominent figure in volleyball, bringing experience as a player, coach, and now as Head Women’s Volleyball Coach at Notre Dame. Known for her innovative coaching techniques, Rockwell is celebrated for her focus on player development. Her approach to training setters is widely respected, making these drills invaluable for anyone looking to improve setting skills or incorporate advanced volleyball training techniques. 

Drills with the Trainer+ Setter’s Eye by Salima Rockwell 

DRILL ONE: Mastering Tempo and Ball Flight 

Focus: Tempo and flight of the ball 

Position of Trainer+:
The Trainer+ is set where the coach wants the outside ball to drop. Using the U-shaped attachment, the coach can fine-tune the arc and flight path, helping the setter achieve a consistent tempo. 

Position of Players: 

• Setter begins in the right-back position, simulating a serve-receive or defense scenario. 
• Coach stands in the middle of the court with a full Ball Cart. 

Drill: 

1. Coach ‘slaps’ the ball to initiate the serve, and the setter moves to the net. 
2. Coach tosses the ball on target, allowing the setter to find a rhythm while setting through the U-shaped attachment into the Trainer+ target net. 
3. Setter sets, then resets to the starting position. 
4. Coach varies tosses across the court to challenge the setter’s movement and timing. 

DRILL TWO: Consistent Body Position 

Focus: Maintaining a neutral body position, regardless of set location 

Position of Trainer+:
Place two Trainer+ targets on the court—one for the outside and one for the right side. 

Position of Players: 

• Setter begins in the right-back position, as in serve-receive. 
• Coach stands in the middle of the court with a cart of balls. 

Drill: 

1. Coach initiates with a ‘slap,’ and the setter moves into position. 
2. As the ball is tossed, the coach calls out the intended set location (outside or right side). 
3. Setter adjusts to each call, aiming for consistent body positioning with each set. 

DRILL THREE: Transitioning from Defense to Setting 

Focus: Defensive touch quality and setter transition movement 

Position of Trainer+:
The Trainer+ is positioned where the outside ball is expected to drop. 

Position of Players: 

• Coach stands on a Sports Imports Coaches Box with balls at hand. 
• Defender in middle-back and left-back positions; setter positioned at the net. 

Drill: 

1. Setter makes a block move to the outside as coach hits the ball to the defenders. 
2. Setter tracks the ball after the block, moving to deliver it accurately to the outside. 
3. Coach emphasizes that defenders focus on digging the ball up and down, allowing the setter to get under it and transition effectively. 

Why These Drills Are Important

These volleyball setting drills help players develop essential skills that transfer directly to game scenarios. From perfecting tempo to maintaining a steady body position and transitioning from defense, each drill prepares players to handle real-match dynamics. A setter’s eye provides an accurate and consistent target, ensuring players receive the feedback they need to refine their techniques. 

Learn More About the Trainer+
Whether you’re a seasoned coach or a player working to improve, the Trainer+, also know as the “Setter’s Eye,”  brings versatility and precision to your training regimen. Contact your Sports Imports Equipment Expert to learn more or to place an order for the Trainer+ and attachments like the Vertec for jump training. 

Key Takeaways from Training Drills with the Trainer+  

• Versatile Training Tool: The Trainer+ is the ultimate volleyball training tool with multiple attachments, including the Vertec for jump training, perfect for all skill levels. 
• Drills Developed by an Coaching Expert: Salima Rockwell, Head Women’s Volleyball Coach at Notre Dame, shares exclusive volleyball setting drills that target tempo, body positioning, and defensive transitions. 
• Drill One – Master Tempo and Ball Flight: Fine-tune tempo and ball arc with precision, using the U-Shaped attachment to perfect flight paths and create consistent outside sets. 
• Drill Two – Consistent Body Positioning: Practice maintaining a neutral body position with the Trainer+ set up for both outside and right-side positions. 
• Drill Three – Defensive Transition to Set: Enhance defensive touch quality and smooth setter transitions from blocking to setting using real-game scenarios. 
• Perfect for Coaches and Players: This tool supports volleyball skill development across high schools, clubs, and colleges, making it essential for volleyball training at every level. 
• Customizable and Durable: The Trainer+ is designed with adjustable height and durable construction, ideal for both indoor and outdoor volleyball training. 

Want more information on the Trainer+?  Learn more or contact your Sports Imports Rep.

(800) 556-3198

6950 Worthington Galena Rd, Suite 120
Worthington, OH 43085

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