How to start playing volleyball

Volleyball is a team sport, played with a ball and a net, by two teams of six players. It can be played indoors or outdoors.

How volleyball works

Volleyball is played on a court, with a net dividing it down the middle. A player from one team hits the ball onto the other side of the court. The opposing team must hit it back over the net, without the ball touching the ground or being hit more than three times. If the ball hits the ground, the other team win a point.  

What is the difference between volleyball and beach volleyball? 

There are four main differences between indoor volleyball and beach volleyball. Beach volleyball courts are smaller than indoor ones as running on sand is more difficult that running on solid ground. Indoor volleyballs are normally made of leather and are heavier than outdoor balls. Indoor volleyball is played with six per side, each with a specific position on the court that they rotate. Beach volleyball is normally played with only two players per side.

An indoor volleyball match consists of five sets, the team to reach 25 points wins the match. Three sets wins the match, and the fifth tiebreaker set, if necessary, is only played to 15 points. Teams switch sides after every game. In beach volleyball, a match consists of a series of best-of-three game, with each game played to 21 points. Two sets wins the match, and the third tiebreaker set, if necessary, is also played to 15 points.

Where to play volleyball in Ireland

To find out about joining a clud, you can contact Volleyball Ireland at [email protected] or visit their website. If you don’t want to join a club, you can buy a net and a ball pretty cheaply in many shops. Why not grab some friends and just play in the park or the beach?

What you need to play volleyball

• A ball
• A net
• Comfortable clothes
• A large space to play
• Other players

Who would it suit?

Volleyball is a team sport that requires co-operation and communication, so would suit you if you like working with other people. You can play it outdoors or indoors so is suitable no matter what the weather. The rules are also quite simple, so it’s easy to take up for beginners.

The benefits of playing volleyball

• Burns calories and helps maintain a healthy weight.
• Tones and shapes the body
• Builds strength
• Increases your energy levels
• Improves hand-eye coordination
• Improves speed and balance
• Can help build a healthy heart
• It can improve communication and teamwork skills
• Can improve your mood and reduce stress