A model of fundamental volleyball techniques based on qualitative principles of biomechanical efficiency.

Abstract

The sport of volleyball is played throughout the United States at various levels of recreation, competition, and education. Volleyball is an activity commonly offered in the realm of physical education. Volleyball is frequently found in instruction and in interscholastic competition.

Physical educators teaching the skills of volleyball typically lack extensive training in the sport of volleyball. Those lacking advanced training, or training available outside the institution, are dependent on the physical education teacher preparation program for acquisition of the knowledge of the fundamental skills of volleyball to be taught.

Much has been written regarding the play of volleyball. Most of that which is found in the literature is directed toward coaches and athletes involved in high-level competition. Very little is directed at instruction in educational and low-level competitive settings.

Much of the literature is based on the coaching or playing experiences of the individual authors. Findings in scientific research regarding playing techniques and skill development are inconclusive. There exists the need for a source of understanding of volleyball skills and techniques directed at instruction in physical education.

The purpose of this educational project is the presentation of a qualitative biomechanical model of volleyball techniques. The model is based on the concept of developing the most efficient movement patterns to produce the desired outcome. Movement patterns which most efficiently accomplish the task of the skill constitute the techniques which are most effectively learned in the instructional settings of physical education and interscholastic athletics.

The model of each skill is broken down into its integrated components, such as the initial posture, movement to the ball, the striking action, and the contact surface. Each skill is presented in three parts. The description of the skill provides a detailed account of basic movements of the technique. The analysis of the skill conveys to the user an understanding of why the model is most efficient relative to other commonly observed patterns. The key teaching points section furnishes the user a brief summary of the technique's basic movements.

The format of the presentation is designed to be a source for understanding fundamental volleyball skills and as a resource to be referred to during the ongoing teaching and learning process. Its use is applicable in programs of physical education teacher preparation, activity class instruction, and interscholastic athletics. The presentation of the model is designed to enhance the understanding of volleyball skills and to be used by the teacher, the learner, and the coach.