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Quicksets with Kenzie: Tips for Beach Volleyball

By Online Volleyball Blog on Wednesday, June 18th, 2008 | No Comments

“People think we have coasted the last four years. We fought, we had a lot of battles. … We’ve always had to battle.” –Kerri Walsh, Olympic Gold Medalist

Summer is coming soon and with it warmer temperatures. Beach volleyball season is approaching.

The following is a list of tips suggested my beach volleyball coach Stu Waite.

  • Only put the ball over on two if: (a) there is no other choice, (b) your partner cannot get up in time to hit and tells you to put the ball over, (c) there is a big opening, or (d) the first pass is right on the net and you can hit.

  • Don’t sway while waiting for the serve.
  • Get the sand off the ball during warm-up hitting.
  • Play deep and think short.
  • Verbally communicate all the time (i.e. “I’ve got middle,” “nice set,” “one more point and switch”).
  • Get low on defense.
  • Don’t miss two serves in a row.
  • Scout other teams and serve to the one who can’t hit or can’t pass.
  • Check the wind. If you have a choice, take the wind in your face rather than the serve.
  • Land on two feet after a hit..
  • Be sure all the players are ready before a serve.
  • In a match, you get two one-minute time outs. Use them when you’re five points behind or the other team is catching up.
  • Check the court for rocks, glass, and shells before the game.
  • Error long instead of short on serves.
  • Use a variety of serves (i.e. sky ball, hard overhand, float, jump).
  • Keep your passes and sets lower in windy conditions.

    Good luck in the upcoming beach season!!!

    And remember, hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.

    Kenzie Aries

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