Defensive blocking and volley technique

What this lesson covers

The coach teaches a defensive philosophy centered on blocking the opponent's attack. When defending at the back of the court, the goal is to hit the ball low and in front of the body. A flat shot with slight topspin ensures the ball dips immediately after crossing the net, preventing the opponents from attacking. This approach prioritizes consistency over power, forcing the opponent to hit from a difficult, low position.

At the net, the coach distinguishes between three volley heights. Low volleys require a soft, controlled touch directed toward the fence. For standard volleys, the coach emphasizes keeping the non-dominant hand straight to maintain shoulder alignment and targeting the middle of the court. High volleys are best played with a flat, sliced motion toward the side wall or cage to maintain net control. The coach also differentiates between the vibora and the bandeja, noting that the vibora uses a circular motion for deep, side-spun shots, while the bandeja is a high-to-low strike used for shorter balls. The lesson highlights that the court itself often wins the point when the ball is placed correctly to the fence.