Synopsis: This is a great way to introduce the basics of volleyball play to new players. It can also be very useful working with teams on positioning and movement.
Age/Skill Level: This game is suitable for beginners and lower level teams.
Requirements: Court, two teams of players. This game does not require a proper net, just a rope or something else strung at an appropriate height.
Execution: This is volleyball played with throwing and catching. There are (or have been) some rules specific to the official game of Newcomb, but the primary ones are balls must be caught (not hit, blocked, patted, etc.), no steps are permitted by the ball-holder, there is a 3-second holding limit, and throws must be made from the ground.
Variations:
- For more advanced groups, things like throwing from in the air (alley-oop style) and blocking may be permitted.
- For developing groups, a mixture of Newcomb and proper volleyball contacts may be allowed.
Additional Comments:
- The game can be used to work teams on movement and positioning for things like offensive and defensive transitions.
- If played competitively, this game can also get players thinking about finding open areas on the court in advance of working on skills like setter dumps, tips, roll shots, etc.
- Played at a sufficiently high level, this could be a good warm-up.
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