Everything You Need to Know About STU’s 2023 Volleyball Team!
STU’s very own volleyball team won their first game beating Massanutten Academy 2-0 to kick off the season strong. On September 19th they led a very close game with Tandem Friends with a final score of 2-1. On October 5th they got back at Tandem with a score of 2-1. A week later, they played another tough game against Miller School with a result of 2-1. Although the season has ended, it's high time that you all get to know and love the team, and all you need to do is just keep reading!
The Stuart Hall volleyball team is made up of 18 students from the Upper School and Middle School, ranging from beginners to experienced players. The great variety and diversity of the team allows for every practice to be exciting and always brings something new (like counting to ten in languages from around the world). Speaking of practice, the STU team is led by coach Parisi and assistant coach Roberson, who are responsible for all decision-making, as well as making sure that the team is constantly improving. The team is motivated, integrated, and excited to make progress and bring home more dubs! Let’s touch on the most important factors:
Key volleyball terms - the glossary:
ACE
– A serve that is not passable and results immediately
in a point.
BLOCK
– A defensive play meant to deflect a spiked ball back to the hitter’s court. It may
be a combination of one, two, or three players jumping in front
of the opposing spiker and contacting the spiked ball with
their hands.
BUMP
– a common term for forearm passing.
DIG
– Passing a spiked or rapidly hit ball. Slang
for the art of passing an attacked ball close to the floor.
PANCAKE
– A one-handed defensive technique where the hand is extended and the palm is slid along the floor as the player dives, and timed so that the ball bounces off the back of the hand.
ROTATION
– The clockwise movement of players around the court and through the serving position following a side out.
SERVE
– One of the six basic skills; A serve begins each rally. A player must hit the ball with his or her hand over the net to land inside the lines of the court. Players may serve underarm or overarm. It is the only skill controlled exclusively by one player.
SET
– The tactical skill in which a ball is directed to a point where a player can spike it into the opponent’s court.
SETTER
– the player who has the 2nd of 3 contacts of the ball who “sets” the ball with an “Overhand Pass” for a teammate to hit. The setter normally runs the offense.
SPIKE
– Also hit or attack. A ball contacted with force by a player on the offensive team who intends to terminate the ball on the opponent’s floor or off the opponent’s blocker.
What does regular practice look like?
We start each practice with running laps and a general warm-up. After that, we pair up and practice our setting and bumping to each other. After practicing our serves, we begin doing drills that the coach has planned for that particular day. Some of the team’s favorites are “Texas Corners” and “King’s Court”. Although practice after school sometimes seems tough, it’s always filled with positive energy and support making it the highlight of our days.
"I want to watch a game, but I don’t understand the rules!!" - The Stuart Hall Spectator has got your back!
Volleyball games are a fantastic way to spend an afternoon, whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the sport. With the school volleyball season in full swing, we've put together a guide on how to make the most of watching a volleyball game. From understanding the basics to cheering your team to victory. Here's your playbook for an unforgettable experience!
1. Get to Know the Basics:
Before diving into the game, it's helpful to know some of the basics of volleyball. Each team has six players on the court at a time. The objective is to send the ball over the net and into the opponent's court, trying to score points by making it hit the ground or by forcing an error. Games are played in sets up to 25 points, and the first team to win 2 sets takes the match. If the set score is 1-1 we play a tie-breaker up to 15 points.
2. Keep an Eye on the Action:
The ball moves fast in volleyball, so stay alert. The thrill of watching a perfectly executed spike or a dramatic dive is worth the effort. Pay attention to the incredible teamwork, precise passing, and strategic placement of shots.
3. Respect the Refs:
Just like any sport, volleyball has referees who ensure fair play. Even if you disagree with a call, remember to respect their decisions. It's all part of the game!
4. Join the Cheers:
When your team scores, let loose with your cheers. Get creative with chants, claps, and even some dance moves. Your energy can inspire the players and fellow fans!
5. Be a Good Sport:
Win or lose, always be a good sport. Celebrate your team's victories gracefully and acknowledge the effort of the opposing team. Sportsmanship is what makes the game enjoyable for everyone.
Watching a volleyball game is an exciting and memorable experience. With this guide, you're ready to hit the bleachers and become a volleyball superfan. So, gear up, cheer loud, and enjoy the game! Spike the excitement and make some unforgettable memories at the next volleyball match!
Recent Games:
Oct. 20: STU vs. Miller school - 4:30pm - Away (won!)
Oct 24: STU vs. Massanutten - 5:00pm - Home (won!)
Can’t wait to see you on the bleachers next time! Go Dragons!
Anna Danieluk