DefenseServe Receive

Serve Receive Basics Drill

A first introduction to passing a served ball, focused on getting the platform and footwork right before worrying about accuracy to a target.

Age RangeAges 8+
Duration8 minutes
Group SizeGroups of 3
SportVolleyball

Equipment Needed

  • One ball per group

Keep balls in every group

A multi-pack of training volleyballs means every group of three has their own ball to work with.

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Setup

  • One server, one passer, and one catcher/target player about 15 feet apart.
Serve Receive Basics DrillSServerPPasserTTargetPasser squares up and platforms the serve to the target

Instructions

  1. The server tosses or serves the ball underhand to the passer.
  2. The passer moves their feet to get square to the ball and forms a platform to redirect it toward the target.
  3. The target catches the pass and feeds the ball back to the server.
  4. Rotate through all three roles every few minutes.
Coaching Points
  • Get the body square to the target before the ball arrives, not after.
  • Use the legs to generate the pass, not just the arms swinging.
  • Watch the ball all the way to contact.

Variation

Progress from a toss to a real underhand serve once footwork and platform are consistent.