Serve receive is the foundation of any successful volleyball offense. If you can’t pass, you can’t run an offense. Building a consistent passing platform and mastering footwork are top priorities, especially for less experienced players.

1. Early Preparation and Posture

• The Stance: Feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, knees bent, weight slightly forward on the balls of the feet. The player should look relaxed but ready to explode in any direction.
• Arms Free: Arms should be loose and apart before the serve. Do not interlock the hands before moving to the ball, as this restricts lateral movement.

2. Movement and Creating Angles

• Beat the Ball: The goal is to get the midline of the body behind the ball whenever possible. Shuffle steps are preferred over crossing the feet.
• Creating the Angle: The passing platform acts as a backboard. The angle of the arms dictates where the ball goes. Drop the inside shoulder to angle the platform toward the target (the setter).

3. Platform and Contact

• The Grip: Place one palm over the other, bringing the thumbs together parallel. Wrists should be angled down to expose the flat, fleshy part of the forearms.
• Quiet Platform: Avoid swinging the arms at the ball. A “tap” is all that is needed to redirect the ball to the desired target. Keep the platform “quiet” and let the ball do the work, simply angle it to the target.