600x600 Get 5 free servingtipspromoGet 5 FREE Serving Tips (Plus 20 Bonus Techniques)! at ImproveYourVolley.com/complete-serving-system-checklists.html

Register TODAY! for my
Coach April's
May 16 -17 and 30 -31
Spiking and Hitting clinics

COACH APRIL’S MAY HITTING CLINICS AT ITS ALL VOLLEYBALL For serious players ages 11–17 who want to improve: - approach footwork - hitting mechanics - power - ball placement - attacking confidence Perfect for: NYS players newer club players club travel players who need more focused hitting work DATES May 2–3 May 16–17 May 30–31 TIMES 10am–11am ages 11–13 11am–12pm ages 13–15 12pm–1pm ages 15–16 1pm–2pm ages 16–17 $40 one session $80 two sessions $120 three sessions Email info@improveyourvolley.com to register today
COACH APRIL’S MAY HITTING CLINICS AT ITS ALL VOLLEYBALL For serious players ages 11–17 who want to improve: - approach footwork - hitting mechanics - power - ball placement - attacking confidence Perfect for: NYS players newer club players club travel players who need more focused hitting work DATES May 2–3 May 16–17 May 30–31 TIMES 10am–11am ages 11–13 11am–12pm ages 13–15 12pm–1pm ages 15–16 1pm–2pm ages 16–17 $40 one session $80 two sessions $120 three sessions Email info@improveyourvolley.com to register today
COACH APRIL’S MAY HITTING CLINICS AT ITS ALL VOLLEYBALL For serious players ages 11–17 who want to improve: - approach footwork - hitting mechanics - power - ball placement - attacking confidence Perfect for: NYS players newer club players club travel players who need more focused hitting work DATES May 2–3 May 16–17 May 30–31 TIMES 10am–11am ages 11–13 11am–12pm ages 13–15 12pm–1pm ages 15–16 1pm–2pm ages 16–17 $40 one session $80 two sessions $120 three sessions Email info@improveyourvolley.com to register today
COACH APRIL’S MAY HITTING CLINICS AT ITS ALL VOLLEYBALL For serious players ages 11–17 who want to improve: - approach footwork - hitting mechanics - power - ball placement - attacking confidence Perfect for: NYS players newer club players club travel players who need more focused hitting work DATES May 2–3 May 16–17 May 30–31 TIMES 10am–11am ages 11–13 11am–12pm ages 13–15 12pm–1pm ages 15–16 1pm–2pm ages 16–17 $40 one session $80 two sessions $120 three sessions Email info@improveyourvolley.com to register today

Email: info@improveyourvolley.com for info or to register for this weekend's clinics! 


Words To Describe Volleyball Blocking What's A Hole in the Block Mean?

Learn about the words to describe volleyball blocking terminology 'what does a hole in the block' mean along with the action words 'under'  and 'over' mean?

Block Volleyball Terms: A hole in the block can be created between the hands of two volleyball players that are going up to cover an area on the net....and don't. (Michael E. Johnston)Block Volleyball Terms: A hole in the block can be created between the hands of two volleyball players that are going up to cover an area on the net....and don't. (Michael E. Johnston)

Words To Describe Volleyball Blocking What Does A Hole in the Block Mean?

First, I begin by providing a thorough definition along with pictures illustrating what the hole in the block is.

I'll finish up with an explanation for "over" for "under."..


Block Volleyball Terms
What's a "hole in the block?"

Block Volleyball Terms: A hole in the block can be created between the hands of two volleyball players that are going up to cover an area on the net....and don't.Words To Describe Volleyball Blocking What's A Hole in the Block Mean?: A hole in the block can be created between the hands of two volleyball players that are going up to cover an area on the net....and don't.


A hole in the block can be created between the hands of two volleyball players that are going up to cover an area on the net....and don't.

When two blockers go up to block a ball, if they don't close their blocking hands together to cover the area above the net that's between the two of them, then that leaves a space between them.

If you look at the photo above the two players blocking on defense No.6 and no.21 have made a block attempt and although they penetrated the net with the proper blocking finish with their hands, the hitter, no. 10 has managed to hit the ball through the seam of the block which was created between the right blocking hand of the middle blocker and the left hand of the off side blocker.


Block Volleyball Terms: Villanova Hitter Hits Through The Hole In The North Carolina Block Photo (Charlie J)Words To Describe Volleyball Blocking What's A Hole in the Block Mean?: Villanova Hitter Hits Through The Hole In The North Carolina Block Photo (Charlie J)


In the picture of the North Carolina volleyball players blocking above, no. 5 and no. 7 have formed a block, but their hands have not come close enough together to close the hole or the seam that's naturally created between the two of them.

The Villanova hitter, with the no 7. jersey, sees the hole and aims her spike right for that open hole in hopes that there's no Carolina back row player positioned in a defensive spot that's designed to have her pick up or dig a ball that's been hit through the seam.

In this photo it looks like there is someone in defense covering the seam but that isn't always the case.

In college ball now, many types of defense are designed to have a libero or great digger to position themselves in the seam to dig that ball. 

Some players and coaches call it a "gap" between the block or a "hole" in the block.

You may have heard another name for this hole that has been created between these two players called a "seam".


Block Volleyball Terms: Stanford Player Hitting Through The Hole In The Block Photo by Michael E. JohnstonWords To Describe Volleyball Blocking What's A Hole in the Block Mean?: Stanford Player Hitting Through The Hole In The Block Photo by Michael E. Johnston


Remember that you want to close your blocking hands when you are one-on-one blocking by yourself as well, because a single player can create a hole in her own block if she's the only one going up to block a hitter and she has her own hands spread too wide apart.

Now she has created a hole in her own blocking hands that the opposing hitter could hit through as well.


Words To Describe Volleyball Blocking What's A Hole in the Block Mean?Words To Describe Volleyball Blocking What's A Hole in the Block Mean?

In either case, that seam, creates a space for a hitter to aim for, in hopes of earning a point for her team by hitting the ball through the hole created by the blocker's hands.


Words To Describe Volleyball Blocking 
What does "over" mean?

"Over" is a blocking term a referee uses to indicate that a front row player has reached over the net to contact/block a ball while its on the opposing team's court.Words To Describe Volleyball Blocking What's A Hole in the Block Mean? "Over" is a blocking term a referee uses to indicate that a front row player has reached over the net to contact/block a ball while its on the opposing team's court.


What does "over" mean?

"Over" is one of the blocking volleyball terms a referee will use to indicate that a front row player has reached over the net to contact or block a ball while it is still on the opposing team's court.



Words To Describe Volleyball Blocking  
What does "under" mean?


What does "under "mean?

"Under" is another one of those blocking volleyball terms that a referee will use to refer to a violation committed when a blocker steps "under" the net in a way that interferes with the opposing team's ability to continue playing a ball.

If the timing of your block jump is such that you are reaching the highest height of your jump while the hitter you are blocking is always on her way down, then you will never be able to stop the ball from coming into your court, which is the whole idea behind blocking a ball anyway.

So if you are looking for tips on how to be a better blocker by improving your timing against an opposing team's hitter, then it's vital for you to read the information on this page.


Rice Hitter Blasts Through A Triple Block Photo by Mike E. JohnstonWords To Describe Volleyball Blocking What's A Hole in the Block Mean? Rice Hitter Blasts Through A Triple Block Photo by Mike E. Johnston

In this section you'll read about the issues concerning how and where you should line your body up against an oncoming hitter who is hitting the line against you or even more commonly how to position yourself up to block someone who is trying to spike cross court against you and your team.


Frequently Asked Questions About Proper Volleyball Serve Technique


1. Question: How can I improve my volleyball serve?


Answer:

Regular practice is key to improvement. Additionally, you can focus on elements such as having a consistent toss, utilizing your whole body for the serve, aiming for different target areas on the court, and varying the speed and spin of your serve. It can also be beneficial to work with a coach or more experienced players for specific tips and feedback.


2. Question: What kind of serve gives the most control?

Answer: 

For beginners, the underhand serve will likely provide the most control. As your skills progress, you might find that the overhand serve gives you a good balance of control and power.

3. Question 3: How can I make my serves more powerful?

Answer:

Power in serving comes from a combination of arm swing speed, timing, and body momentum. Working on your physical strength, particularly in your core and serving arm, can also help generate more power in your serves.

4. Question 4: What is the most difficult type of serve to return?

Answer:

It can be subjective and depends on the skills of the receiver. However, many players find the float serve difficult to return due to its unpredictable trajectory. An excellently executed jump serve can also be very challenging to return due to its speed and power.

5. Question 5: Can I touch the line while serving in volleyball?

Answer:

No, you cannot touch the line. While serving, you need to stay behind the end line until you have contacted the ball. Stepping on or over the line before the ball has been hit is considered a foot fault, and results in the serve going to the other team.

6. Question 6: Why is my serve going into the net/too long?

Answer:

If your serves are going into the net, it may be a result of striking the ball too low or not having enough power. If your serves are too long, you may be hitting the ball too hard, too high, or leaning back too much on contact. Making adjustments in these areas can help improve your serves.


Remember that volleyball is about teamwork, skill, and most importantly, enjoyment!

Train hard, play fair, and always enjoy the game.

Have more questions? Feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help you become the best volleyball player you can be!


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Private or semiprivate volleyball indoor/sand lessons are an excellent way for young Las Vegas high school volleyball players to quickly improve their individual skills through a private or semi-private coaching experience. These lessons are conducted by former pro volleyball player, former USA Volleyball High Performance instructor and Evaluator and Tstreet Vegas 18s head Coach April Chapple on a weekly basis. Sign up now!Private or semiprivate volleyball indoor/sand lessons are an excellent way for young Las Vegas high school volleyball players to quickly improve their individual skills through a private or semi-private coaching experience. These lessons are conducted by former pro volleyball player, former USA Volleyball High Performance instructor and Evaluator and Tstreet Vegas 18s head Coach April Chapple on a weekly basis. Sign up now!


Follow me on Pinterest Volleybragswag to improve your game even faster!

I share alot of individual, partner and easy-to-do volleyball serving drills we do in class with my followers.

Many of these volleyball practice drills you can do at home by yourself or try at your next practice with your teammates.

If you're a B team or JV player trying to make varsity next year...your goal should be to complete 1000 reps a day of at least three of the basic skills on your own...volleyball passing, serving and setting should be at the top of the list. 



Words To Describe Volleyball Blocking 
Where do you need to go now? 


Here are three options: 

  1. Learn more about the volleyball words, terms and terminology in the Related Links below.  
  2. Follow the suggested reading on our Sitemap page  Learning How To Play (Sitemap)
  3. Or visit the pages in the Information section in the drop down menu at the top of the page. 

Read more about volleyball terms on these pages. 

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.

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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.

Volleyball Player Whisperer in Vegas Restoring Power + Peace + Passion To Burnt Out Players, High Performance Volleyball Coach, ImproveYourVolley Web Author, Peace Love Volleyball CollectionVolleyball Player Whisperer in Vegas Restoring Power + Peace + Passion To Burnt Out Players, High Performance Volleyball Coach, ImproveYourVolley Web Author, Peace Love Volleyball Collection

AUTHOR BIO

April Chapple is an elite private volleyball trainer, former USA National Team member, and University of Tennessee Hall of Fame inductee who has coached in Las Vegas for 15+ years, training hundreds of athletes and helping numerous players reach college volleyball, including Division I standouts.

She's also the head coach for girls and boys 18s at Squad VBC and offers coaches consulting on technical teaching and player development. Connect with April on LinkedIn or at ImproveYourVolley.com, where her eye for overlooked talent sets her apart.


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

What Are You Looking For?

Click to Download Your Pre Serving Ritual Mastery Checklist pdf:

🎯Volleyball Pre Serving Ritual Guide -

Players! Learn How To Transform Your Serve from Weak to Weapon

Click to Download Your Parent's Volleyball Serving Checklist pdf

🎯Parent's Volleyball Serving Checklist Guide

Parents! Help Your Player Develop Championship Serves (Even If You've Never Played)


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Hi there!

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

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Stay strong! Stay motivated!

-Coach April


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as seen as on USA News InfluencerTennessee Athletics Honors April Chapple at Champions Weekend for Legendary Volleyball Achievements
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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! In It To Win It Tournament, May 2-4, 2025 Tournament A-1 Vegas Volleyball Club Gold Medalists, 18s Premier Division

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. Las Vegas pulses with endless energy, and as a volleyball mom, you're the powerhouse behind your player's non-stop journey.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.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.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.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!


Struggling with the unique demands of being a volleyball mom in the desert? My Peace Love Volleyball shirts offer both comfort and inspiration for the challenges you face. From dealing with intense heat during outdoor practices to long drives across the valley for tournaments, Vegas volleyball moms face obstacles that others might not understand.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.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.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.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.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.In the fast-paced world of Vegas volleyball, these moments of zen can make all the difference.

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