Volleyball is not just a game of power and spikes; it’s a sport where finesse, technique, and anticipation play a massive role, especially for young players under 13. Among these skills, mastering the underarm receive, or ‘bump’, is crucial. It’s the foundation upon which a good play is built, setting up for effective passes and powerful attacks. So, how does one practice underarm receiving in volleyball under 13? Let’s dive in and explore!
Understanding the Basics of Underarm Receiving
Before we get into the ‘how’, it’s essential to understand the ‘what’ and ‘why’. The underarm receive in volleyball is a basic skill used to control the ball after a serve or an attack from the opposing team. It’s the first line of defense and a pivotal part of the game for young players.
Key Components of a Good Underarm Receive
- Body Positioning: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight on the balls of your feet.
- Arm Placement: Hold your arms straight out in front of you, with hands clasped together, forming a flat surface.
- Eye on the Ball: Always keep your eyes on the ball, anticipating its trajectory.
Step-by-Step Guide to Practicing Underarm Receiving
Warm-Up Drills
Start with basic warm-up exercises to get your body ready. Jogging, stretching, and light calisthenics are excellent for this.
Stance and Positioning Practice
Practice the correct stance repeatedly. This might seem tedious, but muscle memory is a powerful tool in volleyball.
Ball Control Drills
Work with a partner or a coach to practice receiving gentle tosses. Focus on getting the feel of the ball and controlling its direction.
Reaction Drills
Once comfortable, increase the difficulty by having the ball tossed at different angles and spees. This enhances reaction time.
Consistency and Repetition
Repetition is key. Consistent practice helps in fine-tuning the skills necessary for underarm receiving.
Tips for Young Volleyball Enthusiasts
- Stay Relaxed: Tension in the arms can lead to poor ball control.
- Communicate: Always be ready to call for the ball and communicate with your teammates.
- Focus on Form: Quality trumps quantity in practice. Ensure you’re practicing with correct form.
Advanced Techniques and Strategies
As young players become more comfortable with the basics, introduce advanced techniques such as directional bumping and adjusting to different types of serves.
Engaging in Team Drills
Participating in team drills is crucial. It helps in understanding the dynamics of a game scenario and how to react in real-time.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Avoid Swinging Arms: This can lead to loss of control over the ball.
- Don’t Ignore Footwork: Good footwork is essential for effective receiving.
- Watch Out for Ball Watching: Keep an eye on the opponents as well as the ball.
The Role of Coaches and Parents
Coaches and parents play a vital role in encouraging and guiding young players. Positive reinforcement and constructive feedback are key.
Incorporating Fun into Practice
Remember, these players are under 13! Make practice sessions fun with games and challenges. This keeps the enthusiasm high and learning enjoyable.
Measuring Progress and Setting Goals
Track progress and set achievable goals. Celebrating small victories keeps motivation levels high.
Conclusion
Mastering how to practice underarm receiving in volleyball under 13 is not just about repetitive drills. It’s about understanding the mechanics, practicing with purpose, and enjoying the learning process. With dedication, practice, and the right guidance, young volleyball enthusiasts can significantly improve their underarm receiving skills, setting a strong foundation for their volleyball journey.
Remember, every great volleyball player started with the basics, just like you are doing now. Keep practicing, stay focused, and most importantly, have fun on the court!
FAQs
Mastering underarm receiving in volleyball is crucial for players under 13 as it lays the foundation for their overall game. It helps in developing essential skills like ball control, coordination, and teamwork, which are vital for progressing in the sport.
Under-13 players should practice underarm receiving regularly, ideally several times a week. Consistent practice helps in building muscle memory and improving reaction time, which are key to mastering this skill.
Effective drills include stance and positioning practice, ball control exercises with gentle tosses, reaction drills with varied ball speeds and angles, and team drills to simulate game scenarios. These drills enhance both the technical and tactical aspects of underarm receiving.
Yes, under-13 players can practice some aspects of underarm receiving alone, such as stance and positioning. However, for more dynamic drills that involve actual ball receiving, a partner or coach is beneficial to provide accurate tosses and feedback.
Common mistakes include improper arm and body positioning, tensing up during receiving, lack of communication, and poor footwork. Avoiding these mistakes ensures a more effective practice session and helps in developing proper volleyball techniques from an early age.
