Volleyball Set Diagram

Below is a volleyball set diagram. It outlines the different sets we used when I coached collegiately at Brown, and how we defined them. This is based on a system popularized by the USA men back in the 1980s. They divided the net into 9 zones of 1 meter each. On top of that they added set heights ranging from 1 to 5, with 1 being the lowest (fastest). The zones and heights were then combined to provide a two-digit specifier for each set. Thus, a standard high set to the outside (left) hitter is a 14 – zone 1, height 4. A middle quick is a 51 – zone 5, height 1.

Now, for practical purposes most teams do not use the two digit calls in play. They tend to shorten them up to call sets quickly in a fast-paced play. In our case, we used letters to call the 4 different types of quick sets we used. You can see below how we did this, as well as the back row zones system we used based on colors – white, brown, and red from left to right as you’re facing the net.

This topic lives in: Rotations, Lineups & Court Mapping (Start Here)

Related: Volleyball zones & court positions (Zones 1–6)
• 5–1 starting rotation guide

What the numbers mean

The first digit tells you the zone along the net where the ball is intended to be set.

The second digit tells you the height/tempo of the set. Lower numbers are generally faster/lower; higher numbers are generally higher/slower.

Examples:

• 14 = Zone 1, height 4 (a higher outside set)
• 51 = Zone 5, height 1 (a quick middle set)

For a quick refresher on Zones 1–6 and court naming, see Volleyball zones & court positions.

Sample volleyball set diagram

Common examples (translation guide)

• High outside set: often called a “high ball” (in this system: a 14)
• Fast outside: often called go/hut, depending on system (hut above)
• Middle quick: often a 51 (your naming may vary)
• Back row attack zones: vary by team, so define yours clearly

This, of course, is just one system and one volleyball set diagram. There are loads of variations. In my coaching at Svedala in Sweden, for example, the “rip” was equivalent to the 31 from the chart above. A 3 was the 32 set, which is pretty common usage. Our A was a 71 (back quick). We called the “hut” a “go” (which is what a lot of teams call the fast outside set these days). In contrast, at Midwestern State the “rip” was a back row attack in Zone 1. Then there’s the zero tempo concept some people now use.

I have always found, though, that the underlying 2-digit base structure makes it very easy to work out different types of naming approaches or hand signals.

FAQs

What do the numbers mean in a volleyball set diagram?

In a two-digit set diagram, the first digit identifies the target zone along the net and the second digit identifies the height or tempo of the set. Exact naming varies by program, but the point of the diagram is to give everyone a shared language.

Are there standard set names used everywhere?

No. Some terms are common across volleyball, but many teams use different names, numbers, or letters for the same set. That’s why it helps to define your terminology clearly and teach it consistently.

How do set diagram numbers relate to Zones 1–6?

They overlap conceptually, but they are not the same thing. Zones 1–6 describe court areas and player locations, while a set diagram maps where the ball is intended to go and at what tempo. For the court-reference side, see Volleyball zones & court positions.

What’s the difference between a 5–1 and 6–2 in a diagram?

The diagram itself can look similar, but the offensive system changes who is setting and which attackers are available in each rotation. For the bigger picture of lineups, rotations, and who starts where, use the Rotations hub.

What does “tempo” mean in setting?

Tempo is the speed and trajectory of the set relative to the hitter’s approach. Lower/faster tempos usually arrive sooner and flatter; higher tempos give the hitter more time and a bigger window.

How do back row set calls work?

That depends on the team’s system. Some teams number back-row locations in the same diagram structure, while others use separate names. What matters most is that your hitters and setter share the same definitions.

Can I use letters instead of numbers?

Yes. Many teams use letters, words, or mixed systems. Numbers are useful because they can make diagrams quick and compact, but they are not mandatory.

Why do players still get confused even with a diagram?

Usually because they are mixing up set language, rotation language, and zone language. If that’s happening, teach them together instead of separately: use the Rotations hub for the lineup/court picture and the Zones page for court naming.

How should I teach a set diagram to younger players?

Start with a very small menu of calls, make the court map visible, and avoid adding new names until the current ones are automatic. Younger players usually need consistency more than complexity.