The McKibbin Brothers
How to play defense feat. Taylor Crabb
Reading and reacting from one of the best defenders alive.
Technique library
Defense
Defense is reading, not guessing. Alex Haapamäki in particular breaks down defensive footwork better than anyone — make sure you click 'read more' on his videos for the linked follow-ups.
Focus on
What to watch for
- Read the setter, then the attacker's shoulder and hand
- Move on contact, not before — stop your feet and be balanced
- Communicate your block and defense call every single rally
- Practice peeling off the net cleanly and turning to face the ball
Watch now
Videos
Press play — these run right here on the page.
Better at Beach
Footwork for digging the line shot
Get stopped and balanced before contact.
The McKibbin Brothers
Hop step defense
The movement pattern that covers the most court.
Learn Beach Volleyball Fast
Is defense footwork commonly mistaught?
A different take worth thinking about.
SportsNation
Defensive strategies & footwork
Systems for pairing block and defense.
Better at Beach
Footwork for serve receive
The same balance principles as defense.
Go deeper
More from these coaches
Learn Beach Volleyball Fast
Alex Haapamäki's footwork deep dives
Unique insights on movement and reading. Click 'read more' for linked videos.
Better at Beach
Blocking & defense system
How to build a block-defense partnership that works.
The McKibbin Brothers
Defense in real matches
Rally-by-rally analysis of pro defensive decisions.
Videos are hosted on the coaches’ own channels. Watching is free — bring your questions to your next session and we’ll drill it.
Contact us
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