Tip vs. Hit Decision Drill
Attacking
Legend
- player
- cones
- ball
- movement path
How it works
Train players to read the block and decide in real-time whether to hit hard or tip over/around blockers.
What you need
- volleyball
- net
- cones for targets
Your focus
Smart attackers use the tip not just as a softer option but as a tactical weapon against poor block positioning. Learning to read the block at the peak of the jump , rather than committing to one shot before takeoff , develops offensive IQ that separates good attackers from great ones. USA Volleyball IMPACT stresses decision-making as a core attacking skill.
Set up one or two cone targets deep in the court and two targets close to the net in open areas.
A blocker (or coach holding a foam blocker paddle) stands at the net.
Player runs a full approach and jumps. At the peak, the blocker either presents a full block (player should tip) or deliberately leaves a hole (player should hit hard).
Player reads the cue in the air and executes the appropriate shot, aiming for corresponding targets.
Track decision accuracy and contact quality. Complete 15 reps per set.
Goal
Success is making the right choice 4 out of 5 times, when you tip and the blocker closes, or swing when they don't, that's reading, not guessing.
Helpful cues
- See the block before you swing
- Tip with fingertip control, don't push with the palm
- Hard swing when the seam is open
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Blocker signals the call verbally ("tip" or "hit") before the player jumps.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Add a second blocker; player must find the seam or tip off the blocker's hands.No account needed
Build a practice plan
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