Six-on-six wash
Two teams must win back-to-back rallies to score a "big point."
Volleyball Team Drills
Team drills put six players on each side and make them solve real game situations: receiving serve, transitioning after a dig, and finishing points. The most useful ones keep score in a way that rewards what you want to improve, such as winning two rallies in a row. Use them at the end of practice, after skills are warmed up.
- Drills on this page
- 3 core + 2 linked
- Players needed
- 8 to 14
- Equipment
- Full court, net, 10+ balls
- Typical block
- 20–30 minutes
- Best for
- Teams with set positions
The drills
Free-ball transition
A coach sends an easy ball, the team passes, sets and attacks in system.
Serving under pressure
Serving games where a miss costs the team.
Serve-receive triangle
Passers, setter and target working serve receive together.
Queen of the court
Small-sided challenge game that keeps everyone competing.
Key coaching principles
- Score what you want. If you want better transition, give a bonus point for winning a rally after a dig.
- Game-like beats isolated late in practice. Team drills test whether skills hold up under speed and pressure.
- Keep everyone moving. Rotate players in and out so no one waits long. Use extra players as servers or ball feeders.
- Know your system. Players should know where they start and where they move. See formation 5-1, formation 6-2 and formation 4-2.
- Correct briefly. Give one short cue between rallies, not a long talk.
Watch it
Video: USA Volleyball on YouTube. Learn Volley is not affiliated with this channel.
Safety
Full-court drills mean fast movement and players near each other. Teach calling the ball, keep loose balls off the court and pause play when a ball rolls in. See common injuries.
Health note: General information, not medical advice. Young athletes should train under a qualified coach, and anyone with pain or an injury should see a doctor or physical therapist.
Frequently asked questions
How many players do I need for team drills?
Most 6v6 drills need 12, but 8–10 works if you play 4v4 or 5v5 or use a coach as one side.
When should team drills happen in practice?
Usually at the end, after warm-up and skill work. Players are ready to move fast by then.
What does "in system" mean?
It means the pass is good enough that the setter can choose any hitter. Out of system means the setter has fewer options.
How do I stop the same team winning every time?
Mix the teams, give the weaker side an extra point to start, or switch players between rounds.