NOVEMBER Group Training with Coach April Registration is NOW open for Group Training Sessions with me Coach April For BOYS on SATURDAYS 11/8, 11/22, 11/29 For GIRLS on SUNDAYS 11/9, 11/23, 11/30 From 10-11am at the Its All Volleyball gym. Email: info@improveyourvolley.com to register or for more information

Elevate your game with volleyball communication terms for specific positions, non-verbal cues and tips for effective on-court communication in competition.

Volleyball Communication Terms: Players who don't communicate with their teammates on the court handicap and hamper their team's ability to win. (Ralph Arvesen)

Effective communication is a crucial aspect of volleyball that separates good players from great ones.

Using specific volleyball communication terms and phrases on the court allows players to convey information quickly, avoid confusion, and make split-second decisions.

In this article, I'll explore the essential volleyball communication terms and phrases that every player should know to improve their team's performance and increase their chances of winning.

One of the most basic yet essential volleyball communication terms is "mine."

Using specific volleyball communication terms and phrases on the court allows players to convey information quickly, avoid confusion, and make split-second decisions.

Players use this term to call for the ball when they intend to play it, letting their teammates know that they are taking responsibility for the next hit.

This simple word helps prevent confusion and collisions on the court, ensuring that the team works together seamlessly.

Directional terms such as "left," "right," "back," and "short" are crucial volleyball communication terms that help players orient themselves and their teammates on the court.

When a player calls "left" or "right," they indicate the direction of the ball's trajectory, allowing their teammates to adjust their positioning accordingly.

Similarly, "back" and "short" refer to the depth of the ball, with "back" indicating a deep ball and "short" signaling a ball that will land closer to the net.

"Out" is another essential volleyball communication term that players use to indicate that the ball will land outside the court boundaries. (Houston Baptist players Calling The Ball out Michael E. Johnston photo)

"Out" is another essential volleyball communication term that players use to indicate that the ball will land outside the court boundaries.

When a player calls "out," their teammates know that they do not need to pursue the ball, saving valuable energy and allowing them to focus on the next play.

This term is particularly important during serve receive, as it helps the team avoid wasting effort on balls that will result in a point for the opposing team.

Communication in Volleyball: I didn't share any information with teammates which didn't help them understand what I was thinking or what I intended to do. (Neon Tommy photo)

The term "help" is used when a player is unsure if they can successfully play the ball or when they need assistance from a teammate to get a ball they cant or replay a ball that they cant get to.

By calling "help," the player alerts their teammates to be ready to step in and make a play if necessary.

This volleyball communication term is important for maintaining a cohesive defense and making sure that no ball drops between players.

Numerical terms like "one," "two," and "three" are volleyball communication terms used to indicate the number of hits remaining before the ball must go over the net.

"One" means that the player intends to send the ball directly over the net, while "two" and "three" signal to teammates that they should be ready for additional hits before an attack.

If your coach says "Watch for the setter to tip over on one" this means...players in defense should watch for the setter to set the ball over the net or dump the ball over the net instead of setting the ball to one of their hitters as a way to trick the defense. 

These communication terms help teams stay coordinated in their offense while maintaining a structured approach to each rally.

Communication in volleyball. Volleyball is a team sport, not an individual sport. Players who don't communicate with their teammates on the court handicap and hamper their team's ability to win.

Volleyball Communication Skills: Players who don't communicate with their teammates on the court handicap and hamper their team's ability to win.

"Bounce" and "tip" are volleyball communication terms used to describe specific types of offensive plays.

"Bounce" refers to an attack that is hit with force, by a hitter who uses a quick arm swing that causes the ball to bounce off the ground quickly and making it difficult for the opposing team to defend.

"Tip," on the other hand, describes a soft shot placed strategically into an open area of the opponent's court.

By calling out these terms, players let their teammates know the type of attack being executed, so they can position themselves in the court for the oncoming attack.

In addition to general volleyball communication terms, players also use position-specific terms to give information quickly.

For example, "setter out" is used to tell the setter that they should not attempt to play the ball, while "middle in" instructs the middle blocker to move closer to the net for a quick attack.

Other position-specific terms include "outside back" (telling the outside hitter to move back) and "libero up" (indicating that the libero is moving forward to play a short ball).

By using these terms, players can make quick adjustments and coordinate their movements more effectively.

The setter holds up four fingers to the left side hitter, then one forefinger to her middle hitter then all five fingers they'll hold up to her right side hitter to call the 4-1-5 offensive volleyball play. 

While verbal communication is crucial in volleyball, non-verbal techniques like hand signals and gestures can also play a significant role in effective on-court communication.

For example, players may use a closed fist to indicate a strong hit or an open hand to signal a soft shot.

Pointing to a specific area of the court can communicate where a player intends to hit the ball.

Setters often use hand signals behind their back to indicate the type of set they will deliver to the hitters.

Hands Signals For Setters in Volleyball

Hand signal for a one or a quick set in the middle. Hand signal "hang loose" often used by setters in volleyball to call a back One.

Hand signal often used by setters in volleyball for a "Shoot set" or a "Go" set. Hand signal often used by setters in volleyball for a "Shoot set" or a "Go" set.

By combining verbal and non-verbal communication, teams can create a more comprehensive and efficient system for sharing information on the court.

When a setter calls "one" before setting the ball, the hitters know to prepare for a quick attack, increasing the chances of catching the opposing team off guard.

Using volleyball communication terms effectively can directly impact a team's success on the court.

For example, if a player calls "out" and their teammate trusts the call, they can let the ball drop without fear of losing a point.

When a setter calls "one" before setting the ball, the hitters know to prepare for a quick attack, increasing the chances of catching the opposing team off guard.

Effective communication also helps players avoid errors, such as collisions or double hits, which can cost the team valuable points.

By consistently using volleyball communication terms, teams can create a more coordinated and efficient offense and defense, ultimately leading to more successful plays and points.

Volleyball Communication Words: How are teammates supposed to know "who" is going to do "what" if members of the team stay silent while the ball is in play.

Incorporating volleyball communication terms into practice sessions is essential for building a strong team dynamic and making sure that players are comfortable using these terms in high-pressure game situations.

Coaches can create drills that focus on specific communication skills, such as calling for the ball or using directional terms.

During scrimmages, players should be encouraged to use volleyball communication terms consistently, even if they make mistakes.

Reviewing game footage and analyzing communication breakdowns can also help teams identify areas for improvement.

By prioritizing communication in training and matches, teams can develop a more cohesive and effective on-court strategy, leading to better performance and more success in competition.

Good volleyball communication words used on the court during a game are crucial to your winning success. (Big East Butler coach talks to her setter)

Learning volleyball communication terms and phrases is essential for any player looking to elevate their game and contribute to their team's success. 

By using terms like "mine," directional cues, "out," "help," numerical hits, and offensive play calls, players can communicate with their teammates, make quick decisions, and adapt to the fast-paced nature of the sport. 

As you continue to develop your volleyball skills, make sure to prioritize communication and incorporate these essential terms into your on-court vocabulary.

With practice and repetition, effective communication will become second nature, leading to improved team performance and more victories on the court.

Okay here's where you need to go now! There are three options: 

1. Learn more about Volleyball Skills by clicking the Related Links below. .
2. Follow the suggested reading on our Sitemap page Learning How To Play (Sitemap)

If your athlete struggles with consistent serve receive, gets subbed out, or is overlooked for playing time—this is the fix you’ve been looking for.

Struggling with passing consistency?

I help talented passers tired of getting pulled from games because of inconsistent serve receive skills  BUILD passing confidence without expensive private lessons using the same 3-step system that's helped dozens of my athletes get recruited.

Download my eBook for $17.99 and start building the passing confidence that keeps you on the court—and gets you seen by college coaches.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SQUAD Volleyball Club (@squadvbc)

NOVEMBER Group Training with Coach April Registration is NOW open

From Lady Vol to Legend: Coach April Produces Powerful Passionate Players...is that you?

Hi there!

Thanks for stopping by. Hope you learned something today that will help you reach your volleyball goals.

Be sure to subscribe to my email newsletter so you can learn more each week!

Stay strong! Stay motivated!

-Coach April

 SUSCRIBE  to my email newsletter below!

Email

First Name (optional)

I am at least 16 years of age.

I have read and accept the privacy policy.

I understand that you will use my information to send me a newsletter.

Subscribe

Tennessee Athletics Honors April Chapple at Champions Weekend for Legendary Volleyball Achievements

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SQUAD Volleyball Club (@squadvbc)

Click to learn more about my weekly advanced volleyball instruction availability email me at info@improveyourvolley.com to get your questions answered and sign up for my newsletter

Click to learn more about the weekly volleyball classes and clinics or email info@imrpoveyourvolley.com for information

My schedule is out and I'm ready to send it to you if you're interested in my 2025/2026 semi private training opportunities. Sign up for email newsletter above to get all my news!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vegas Volley (@vegas_volley)

Congratulations to my seven Boys-18s Vegas Volley club players who played in two state championship finals yesterday, the 3A and 5A State champinship finals at Sunrise Mountain High School.

TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS!

A-1 Vegas Volley VBC

    In It To Win It      Tournament   

May 2 - 4, 2025 Tournament

Gold Medalists

18s Premier Division

Vegas Volleyball's Unsung Heroes: Celebrating Moms with Peace Love Volleyball Shirts

In the city that never sleeps, my Peace Love Volleyball mom shirts are your 24/7 support system.

More than just clothing, my shirts are a tribute to the tireless spirit of Vegas volleyball moms.

With motivational messages and vibrant designs, they mirror the dynamic energy of our city while celebrating your constant presence in your player's volleyball adventure.

In a town that's always on, you're the ever-present force driving your player's success.

Ready to energize your volleyball mom journey?

Subscribe to my 'Producing Powerful Passionate Peaceful Players' email list above on ImproveYourVolley.com.

You'll receive energy-boosting tips, exclusive insights from me,        Coach April Chapple on maintaining momentum in volleyball.

Let's power up the Vegas volleyball scene together!

Dear Vegas Volleyball Mom, I know that balancing Vegas life with volleyball commitments can feel like walking a tightrope, but my Peace Love Volleyball mom shirts are here to support you every step of the way.

As the Vegas volleyball scene grows, so does the pressure on players and moms alike. My Peace Love Volleyball shirts are here to remind you of your inner peace amidst the chaos.

In a city known for its high energy, finding moments of calm can be challenging, especially when juggling the demands of volleyball life.

My volleyball mom shirts aren't just about looking good - they're about feeling good too.

With messages that promote mindfulness and positivity, they serve as a wearable reminder to breathe, center yourself, and approach each volleyball challenge with a peaceful mindset.

In the fast-paced world of Vegas volleyball, these moments of zen can make all the difference.

Recent Articles

• 

1. I'm A College Volleyball Setter The Rachel and Hajnalka Interview

   Nov 02, 25 02:18 PM

   
   Conference USA Rachel Vukson and Hajnalka Molnar open up about being the college volleyball setter on their team opening up about life, competing and playing.

   Read More

2. The Best Opposite Volleyball Player in the Southland Conference

   Nov 02, 25 02:17 PM

   
   The best opposite volleyball player in the Southland Conference Amari Deardorff answers our interview questions about life in Division I volleyball.

   Read More

3. The Best Middle Blocker Volleyball Athletes Answer My Questions

   Nov 02, 25 02:15 PM

   
   The best middle blocker volleyball players in the Big West and Big Ten answer my interview questions about being a successful Division I athlete.

   Read More