Spread the Attack

Often teams run into an opponent with a dominant middle blocker that seems to be everywhere and block every ball that (almost) comes over the net. Coaches must recognize a dominant middle blocker and have tools for their team to neutralize her. A basic offensive play, and its effect on the defense, will be discussed.

As the diagram shows, this play runs the attackers away from the middle of the court and overloads the left side of the net. The middle hitter is hitting the 31, a first tempo (fast paced) set, forcing either the middle blocker or the left side blocker to commit to her. The right side (94) and left side (14) hitter are hitting second tempo (medium paced) sets. The play is designed to force the middle blocker to decide on stepping with the middle hitter or hold in the middle of the court and read. If she holds in the middle, the setter should set the middle hitter for a 1-on-1, or 1-on-none situation on the 31 set. If the middle blocker commits to the middle hitter, the setter should set the right side hitter for the 1-on-1. The left side hitter is used for an outlet when the pass is less than ideal. She can also be used when the left side blocker is committing to the middle hitter.?

This play needs to be practiced until the setter is comfortable seeing the middle blocker and responding to her movements. If this play can be executed properly, it is virtually impossible to get 2 blockers on any of the hitters. Of course, the success, of any play, will be determined by the pass and the abilities of the setter and attackers.


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