Throughout play, try to continually assess the defense, so you always know where you want to send the ball when you have the opportunity.
Most setters find it easiest to position themselves in the back-right corner of the court and approach each set from there. You can set from wherever you are most comfortable, but this position starts you off facing in the optimal direction for sending the ball to your team’s attackers. [4] X Research source
Getting quickly to the ball is all about efficiency. This means you should try to move in a straight line to the ball, taking no more steps than necessary. You will also need to run as efficiently as possible. Many setters make the mistake of running with their arms up, but this will slow you down. Wait to raise your arms until you are in position. [5] X Research source
A good rule of thumb is to always orient yourself toward the left antennae when setting, that way the other team can’t figure out where you’re going to set the ball to based on which way you are facing. [6] X Research source
Your thumbs and forefingers should form a triangular window through which you can see the ball, but your hands should not actually touch one another. Try to relax your fingers right before you make contact with the ball. If you want to back set the ball, aiming it behind you, extend your arms upward and behind instead of in front or directly above you.
Even distribution of weight will allow you to quickly change the direction you are facing if necessary. If you are back setting, the knee bend is less important. Instead, push your hips forward a little and slightly arch your back.
You can create advantageous situations for your team by being deceptive about where you are going to send the ball, potentially leaving the other team unprepared for which attacker will actually be spiking. [7] X Research source For example, you might slightly arch your back, as if you are going to back set, and then at the last second set the ball forward instead, or vice versa. You can also square up as if you are going to set the ball toward one player, especially one across the court, and instead execute a short set to an attacker in a different direction, such as off to your side. [8] X Research source After setting, turn and look toward the ball’s final destination, to signal your own teammates.
Try to make contact with all of your fingers touching the ball. The more of the ball’s surface area you make contact with, the more control you will have over it. Do not let the ball touch your palms. Contact with your palms may be considered catching the ball, which is against the rules in volleyball. If your team scores a point after an illegal maneuver, the referee might opt to restart the rally and revoke that point.
The straightening of your legs sends power through your body and up to your hands. Your whole body should be part of the push. [9] X Research source Actual contact time with the ball should be minimal. This action is essentially the same for a back set, but with less force originating from the knees.
