Chiquita technique: controlling pace to transition

What this lesson covers

The chiquita serves as a tactical tool to neutralize opponents at the net and gain time for a transition. By hitting the ball soft and low to the feet, the defender forces the volleyer to contact below net height, which limits the volleyer's ability to hit an aggressive return. This lack of pace allows the defender to move forward with more control rather than rushing into a risky exchange.

When transitioning, the goal is to resist the temptation to hit the subsequent volley with high power. A soft, placed volley into open space after the initial chiquita keeps the opponent under pressure and provides the necessary time to secure a stable net position. Mixing in lobs prevents the volleyers from anticipating the low ball, while focusing on placement over speed turns a defensive situation into a controlled approach. This approach suits players who rely on power but struggle to find the time to reach the net safely.