Post-Camp Volleyball Tips: Building a Wall - Mastering Blocking

Hello once again, volleyball superstars,

It's Dr. Darren Cannell here, your coach from the Canadian Elite Academy. Your commitment to volleyball continues to amaze me! Today, we're shifting our focus to a crucial defensive skill: blocking. I'll break it down into its essential components and share some at-home drills to help you build an impenetrable block.

Blocking

An effective block can shut down an opponent's attack and even turn defense into offense in an instant. Mastering it requires good timing, strong jumping, and accurate hand placement.

The Stance

Start in a balanced, ready position, with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and hands ready at chest level.

Home Drill: Mirror Stance Practice your blocking stance in front of a mirror. Make sure you're balanced and ready to spring up quickly.

The Jump

Your goal is to get your hands over the net as quickly as possible. This requires a strong, fast jump, pushing off from both feet.

Home Drill: Quick Leap Practice your two-footed jump at home. Focus on minimizing the time from your starting stance to reaching your maximum height.

The Hand Position

Your hands should form a wall over the net, fingers spread wide to cover more area. You want to penetrate the opponent's side of the court without touching the net.

Home Drill: Wall Reach Stand close to a wall, jump, and reach as if you were blocking. This can help you practice your hand position and penetration.

The Timing

Timing your block correctly is key to stopping an attack. You want to jump as the attacker is hitting the ball, not when they're approaching for the attack.

Home Drill: Block Timing Have someone toss a ball, simulating an attack, and practice timing your jump to 'block' the ball. If you're alone, tossing the ball up for yourself and practicing your timing is also beneficial.

The Landing

A safe landing is crucial to avoid injuries. Always land on both feet and bend your knees to absorb the impact.

Home Drill: Safe Landings After each practice jump, focus on your landing. Make sure you're landing safely, on both feet, with knees bending to absorb the impact.

Remember, blocking is about technique and timing more than just size and height. Keep practicing these drills, and you'll become an invaluable wall at the net.

Stay safe, keep practicing, and always remember to stretch before and after each session. Can't wait to see your blocking skills in action in the new season!

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