This is an entry in my volleyball coaching log for 2014-15.
The first and second teams both play league matches on Sunday – in different locations, so it will be a split squad situation. The second team players who will be available to play were at this training session, but only 3-4 of the first team players were on-hand for various reasons. A bit annoying in terms of trying to prepare for an important match.
After the dynamic warm-up, I had the players do some blocking footwork. This was less about the need to work on the mechanics, which have improved considerably, and more about keeping blocking front of mind – particularly for the first team which has struggled in that area.
I moved them from there to some partner pepper to continue the warm-up, then did some serving. I followed that up with some mini volleyball – 2 v 2 on half court with a shared setter as a preparation for 6 v 6 play. I set the teams to combine first teamers with second teamers for balanced play and kind of a big sister learning situation.
The rest of training was dedicated to the 22 v 22 game with the full second team playing against the first teamers. Despite playing short-handed (4 players), the first team was the stronger. The second team did get in some good hits and generally blocked well, but the defense needs significant improvement. As much as not having the starting 6 there to play together was annoying, it did give me a chance to focus more on the second team.
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