Volleyball is a sport of precision and quick reflexes, demanding players maintain a high level of skill and understanding of the rules. One crucial rule often misunderstood, and consequently penalized, is the double contact. This article will delve into the intricacies of double contact in volleyball, clarifying what constitutes a violation and how to avoid it.
Defining a Double Contact in Volleyball
A double contact, also known as a double hit, occurs when a player illegally makes contact with the ball twice in succession. This is a fundamental rule violation, leading to a point for the opposing team. The key here is "in succession," meaning the contacts must be consecutive without any intervention from another player or the ball hitting another surface. Let's break down the nuances:
What constitutes a double contact?
- Two distinct contacts: The most straightforward example is a player clearly hitting the ball twice in a row. This could involve a set followed immediately by a spike attempt, without the ball touching another player or the ground in between.
- Carrying or lifting the ball: A player is not allowed to lift or carry the ball, even if it seems like a single contact. If the player's hand or arm moves upwards with the ball (carrying) or holds the ball for an extended moment before releasing it (lifting) this often falls under double contact.
- Multiple contact points: While a single contact can involve multiple points of contact on the hand or arm (e.g., a forearm pass), moving the hands or arms to make a second contact during the same playing action is considered a double.
- Contact with a player and then the ball: For example, if a player touches another player on the court, even slightly, and then subsequently touches the ball, this can also be considered a double. This situation focuses on the player interfering with the legal playing of the ball with other parts of the body.
Situations that are not double contacts:
- Blocked ball contacting the blocker twice: A blocker is permitted to make contact with the ball multiple times provided the contacts occur during a single, continuous action. This is because the block is considered a single defensive action.
- Ball contacting multiple parts of the player’s body in quick succession: A single contact can involve the ball touching multiple parts of a player's body, e.g., the shoulder and then forearm, provided this is a single, continuous motion.
- Teammates cooperating on a single play: As long as multiple players make legal contact with the ball during a single action, there's no double contact. A perfectly executed set and spike is a prime example.
Avoiding Double Contacts: Tips for Players
Preventing double contacts requires practice, awareness, and proper technique. Here are some key strategies:
- Proper Passing Techniques: Mastering proper forearm passing and setting techniques minimizes the risk of unintentional double contacts. Focus on maintaining a flat, stable platform for the ball to bounce cleanly off.
- Controlled Contact: Instead of slapping or aggressively hitting the ball, strive for controlled contact with a smooth, directed action.
- Team Communication: Clear communication between teammates is crucial for coordinating movements and ensuring legal plays. This collaboration helps avoid the confusion of multiple players trying to handle the ball simultaneously.
- Focus on Skill Development: Consistent practice and drills focusing on fundamental volleyball techniques improve coordination and control, significantly reducing the likelihood of double-contact errors.
Conclusion
Understanding and avoiding double contacts is crucial for volleyball players of all skill levels. By mastering proper techniques, maintaining clear communication with teammates, and focusing on controlled movements, players can greatly reduce the number of double-contact penalties, ensuring smoother gameplay and increased competitiveness. Remember, a single double contact leads to a point for your opponent, so perfecting this aspect of the game is critical for overall success.
