Welcome to the Block-Party, why defence wins games

Wednesday, September 27, 2017 - 11:00
Michael
Manager of League Operations

Bump, set, spike ... point? Not always. From the recreational to the competitive divisions, defence can be the difference maker in winning big points to put your team in a position to compete for the league championship! When we talk about defence, it's the blockers who put up the 'wall' to stop a team from returning the ball over the net or force hitters to redirect the ball letting the back row get the 'dig' and keep the ball in play.

How does a team block effectively and what are the tips to have a great block-party? First, you need great music! Seriously though, it is preferable to have two front row players. Blocks do work with one, but it's more fun with two. Having two allows the defence to cover more area to prevent the other team from returning the ball over the net. If your team chooses to block with two players, it will always be the middle and either the right side or power. The middle will be the most active and should track the ball on the opponent's side of the net. When the setter goes to set the ball, the middle will call where the set is going. Depending on which side the ball is going, the power or right side will prepare to block.

Now for the fun part. The middle has called where the ball is going, now the right side/power need to line up with the hitter to pick the blocking position. To line up the right side/power should be standing with their body centred on the hitter's shoulder. The middle will then side-step along the net to join the first blocker. When done well, the middle and right side/power will jump together to block. Jump with your arms fully extended and hands in a fan position. Here is an example from a match between the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary.

Having the two-person block makes it more difficult for the hitter to attack. A good block-party can turn a good hit, into a roll shot or a tip. It will also save your back row and allow them to get a better pass to the setter. Plus, the satisfaction of a good block will bring up the energy. Who doesn't want to get the point and shift the momentum to their team?!

At the end of the night, great defence will make the difference and give your team something to celebrate. Have fun at the block party!