Volley pace: choosing speed by target area

What this lesson covers

When holding the net position, the pace of the volley depends on the target zone. Shots directed toward the middle of the court require a slower pace. A ball played with too much speed into the center often reaches the back glass with a predictable, straight bounce. This allows the defender to easily control the ball, execute a lob, and potentially steal the net position. Aim to force the defender to take the ball before it reaches the glass, ideally making it bounce twice in the middle zone.

Conversely, attacks directed toward the corners or the opponent's feet allow for higher pace. A fast ball hitting the side glass creates a complex double rebound that forces the defender to move laterally or spin to track the ball. This trajectory makes the defensive return significantly more difficult to execute. The same logic applies to the bandeja or vibora, where targeting the sides forces the defender to wait for the double rebound, granting the attacking team more time to solidify their net position and prepare for the next shot.