Digging is a fundamental skill in volleyball, pivotal for turning the tide in a tight match. Mastering the dig can mean the difference between a lost point and a spectacular save. This article delves into a series of volleyball dig drills designed to sharpen your digging abilities, focusing on reaction time, precision, and the art of effective ball control. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to polish your skills, these drills are tailored to elevate your defensive game.
For those new to the concept or in need of a refresher on the basics of digging, you might want to check out our detailed explanation in what’s a dig in volleyball.
Tips to dig without hurting
Volleyball is a fun sport, but digging and receiving serves can be painful for players.
To reduce discomfort, use the sides and undersides of your forearms, not the tops, as this reduces unpredictable bounces and lessens pain.
Focus on absorbing impact with the meatier part of your forearm rather than wrists or hands.
Wearing long sleeves in practice can also help soften the blow and improve control.
If discomfort persists, consider using arm compression sleeves, especially if it’s affecting your enjoyment of the sport. These sleeves not only provide comfort but also protect your arms during dives.
Now let’s move to the drills.
Volleyball Dig Drills For Beginners
The Wall Digging Drill is an excellent solo exercise for defensive volleyball players.
All you need is a ball and a wall.
Start by standing in front of the wall, toss the ball, and hit it against the wall, then practice digging the rebound. You can increase the difficulty by throwing the ball harder.
This drill allows for variations, such as underhand or overhand digs, and aiming for specific targets to simulate game-like scenarios.
Regular practice, combined with exercises like squats and proper warm-up, will significantly improve your digging skills.
In this digging drill, players practice defending against a pin attack.
The drill starts with a back row player in the base position moving to a read position down the line on the coach’s signal.
The coach sends a ball down the line, and the player angles their platform towards the target.
For a cross court attack, a second coach hits the ball from across the court, and the defensive player redirects their platform to the middle for a quality pass.
The key is to angle the platform without swinging it. This drill is performed from both sides and the middle back.
The Knockout Dig Drill is an enjoyable and competitive exercise that enhances a defensive player’s digging skills.
Players aim to dig the ball to a target area and then catch it, optimizing digs for setters.
The drill involves two marked areas on the court, and players try to catch their dig within these zones.
The quality of the dig is judged based on where the ball is caught.
This drill creates a competitive environment, with players knocking each other out based on the quality of their digs.
The last player standing, who consistently makes the best digs, wins the game.
In the “Dig, Tip, Chase” drill, players start at the endline, with the coach or hitter feeding the ball from the same side but with their back to the net.
The sequence involves:
- The feeder hitting a ball for the player to dig and return as a playable pass.
- The hitter then tips the ball, prompting the player to move in for another dig.
- Finally, the hitter deliberately sends the ball wide, challenging the player to chase and attempt to send it back into play.
This drill uses two hitter boxes set in positions 2 and 4, just behind the attack line.
Defensive players form two lines on the opposite side of the court.
Hitters drive hard balls at the diggers at a high-speed tempo, with shaggers keeping the drill moving.
Progression includes using libero(s) or defensive specialists between the two lines, with hitters alternating shots at the libero.
This keeps the tempo high, forcing players to make quick decisions and maximizing repetitions.
Conclusion
These drills are key to building a defensive player’s confidence and enhancing physical conditioning. I’ve provided detailed insights into each drill, equipping you with the knowledge to excel in volleyball digging.
By regularly practicing these drills, you’ll develop your skills and elevate your game.
Remember, consistent effort is the path to becoming an adept digger!
Hey, don’t forget to explore our training and drills designed specifically to elevate your unique skills!