Post-Camp Volleyball Tips: Spiking Your Way to Victory

Hello volleyball superstars,

Dr. Darren Cannell here, your coach from the Canadian Elite Academy. I'm thrilled to see your dedication and enthusiasm for the game continuing beyond our camp. Today, we'll focus on an incredibly exciting skill: spiking. We'll break it down into key components, and I'll suggest some drills you can do at home to sharpen your spiking prowess.

Spiking

A well-executed spike can be a real game-changer. It involves timing, power, accuracy, and a good leap. Let's dive into the key parts of this skill.

The Approach

A three-step or four-step approach is usually used for spiking. This approach gives you the momentum necessary for a powerful jump and strike.

Home Drill: Shadow Spiking Practice your approach without a ball in your living room or backyard. Get a feel for the rhythm of the steps and work on accelerating through your approach.

The Jump

A strong vertical leap is crucial in spiking. The higher you jump, the better angle and power you can get on your spike.

Home Drill: Vertical Leap Practice your vertical leap at home. Try jumping and touching a spot slightly higher than your reach. Over time, aim for higher spots to increase your vertical jump.

The Arm Swing

A powerful arm swing is what drives the ball down into the opponent's court. Your elbow should be pulled back (like drawing a bow) and then whip forward, leading with your elbow and following through with your hand.

Home Drill: Solo Swings You can practice arm swings without a ball. Focus on the motion: pull your elbow back, then swing your arm forward. Remember to snap your wrist at the end of the swing (like you're flicking water off your fingers).

The Contact

Making contact with the ball at the highest point of your jump and on top of the ball will give you the best angle for a successful spike.

Home Drill: Balloon Spike Try this at home with a balloon. Toss the balloon, approach, jump, and spike the balloon. This will help you practice timing your jump and arm swing.

The Follow-through

The follow-through after hitting the ball is crucial for the direction and speed of the spike. You want to follow through in the direction you want the ball to go.

Home Drill: Follow-through Practice You can practice this with your solo swings. Make sure your hand is following through in the direction you want to spike.

Remember, spiking is a complex skill that requires practice and patience. Don't be discouraged if you find it challenging at first; keep practicing these drills, and you'll see improvement.

Stay safe, keep practicing, and don't forget to stretch before and after each session. Let's get ready to spike our way to victory in the upcoming season!

Cheers, Dr. Darren Cannell Head Coach, Canadian Elite Academy