Soft High-Ball Option Training

How to run it

1. 1

   In this drill athletes pair up and practice playing the ball above the head using a number of different techniques. One hand over fist (ball is played on the base of the hand) Prayer shot (palms placed together in a prayer fashion - ball is played on the base of the hand) Knuckle (ball is played on the 2 to nd st nd last knuckles of the 1 and 2 fingers) Initially one athlete in the pair should throw 8- 10 balls to their partner above the head before switching. Beginner athletes attempting the first two methods should start on their knees as it forces them to get the elbows forward and assists them in playing the ball up rather than forward. Once the technique has been mastered then the athletes can stand up and play the ball back and forth to each other on their feet. Athletes can them move onto playing the ball back and forth to each other over the net. Athletes should be encouraged to try all of the techniques before deciding on which one they prefer and will use in a game situation.

2. 2

   Coach emphasis: Keep defense reps game-like and technically clean.