Volleyball sets are an essential part of the game, acting as the second touch in a team’s offensive play.
The setter’s primary responsibility is to deliver the ball to the attackers in an optimal position, allowing them to execute a powerful and effective attack.
Sets come in various types and tempos, each designed to create scoring opportunities and keep the opposing team off balance.
Mastering different types of sets is crucial for a team’s success and requires excellent communication, timing, and teamwork.
Table of Contents
What is Set In Volleyball?
In volleyball, a set is the second touch in a team’s offensive play, where the setter strategically positions the ball for an attacker to hit it over the net.
The primary goal of a set is to create scoring opportunities by delivering the ball in an optimal location and tempo, allowing the hitters to execute a powerful and effective attack against the opposing team’s defense.
Importance of sets in a volleyball game
Sets play a vital role in volleyball games for several reasons:
- Establishing offensive rhythm: A well-executed set enables the hitters to approach the ball with proper timing and attack with maximum power and precision.
- Creating opportunities for hitters: Different types of sets can exploit weaknesses in the opponent’s defense or take advantage of mismatches in height, skill, or positioning.
- Maintaining unpredictability: A team with a diverse set repertoire makes it harder for the opposing defense to predict and respond to attacks effectively. By varying the sets, a team can keep the opponents guessing and increase their chances of scoring points.
- Enhancing team cohesion: A team that works together to execute various types of sets demonstrates strong communication, trust, and understanding of each player’s strengths and weaknesses.
- Developing setter versatility: A setter who can deliver various types of sets not only increases the team’s offensive options but also showcases their skill and adaptability. This versatility can prove valuable in high-pressure situations or when facing strong defensive opponents.
Different types of sets In Volleyball
| Set Name | Location | Set Type | Ball Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Four | Left Side | Slow (Third Tempo) | High |
| The Five | Middle | Slow (Third Tempo) | High |
| The Two (Slow) | Middle | Slow (Third Tempo) | High |
| The Hut | Left Side | Second Tempo | Medium |
| The 32 | Middle | Second Tempo | Medium |
| The Red | Right Side | Second Tempo | Medium |
| The Two (Second) | Middle | Second Tempo | Medium |
| The Shoot | Left Side | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| GO | Left Side | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| The Half Shoot | Middle | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| The 31 | Middle | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| The One | Middle | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| The Back One | Middle | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| The Slide | Right Side | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| Push 1 | Middle | Second Tempo | Medium |
| Back 2 | Right Side | Second Tempo | Medium |
| 5 | Back Court | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| Pipe | Back Court | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| D | Back Court | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| B | Back Court | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| C | Back Court | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| Back Row Quick Attack (BIC) | Back Court | Fast (First Tempo) | Low |
| X Combo Play | Middle | Combo Play | Varies |
| Double Quick Combo Play | Middle | Combo Play | Varies |
Slow (Third Tempo)
Slow sets, also known as third-tempo sets, provide ample time for the hitter to approach and jump for the attack.
These sets are characterized by a higher trajectory and longer hang time, allowing for more strategic placement and deceptive shots.
Slow sets are ideal for situations when a quick attack is not possible, or when exploiting gaps and weaknesses in the opponent’s defense.
The Four
The Four is a slow, high-arcing set typically delivered to the outside hitter on the left side of the court.
The set’s trajectory allows the hitter to have more time to analyze the defense and choose the best angle for their attack.
How To Execute?
To execute The Four set, the setter stands near the net and aims to deliver the ball to the left side antenna with a high arc.
The outside hitter should approach the ball from behind, timing their jump to make contact at the peak of the ball’s trajectory and directing their attack toward an open area of the court.
When to use This Set?
The Four is best used when the setter and hitter need more time to coordinate their attack or when the opposing team’s blockers have proven to be particularly aggressive.
This set also allows the outside hitter to make adjustments and exploit weaknesses in the opponent’s defense.
The Five
The Five is a slow, high set delivered to the right-side hitter, typically near the right-side antenna.
Like The Four, this set gives the hitter ample time to approach, jump, and analyze the opponent’s defense.
How To Execute?
The setter should be near the net and aim to deliver the ball with a high arc to the right side antenna.
The right-side hitter approaches from behind, timing their jump to make contact with the ball at its peak, and directs the attack toward an open area of the court or to exploit the defense’s weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The Five set is ideal when the setter and right-side hitter need more time to coordinate their attack or when the opposing team’s blockers are particularly aggressive.
This set also enables the right-side hitter to make adjustments based on the opponent’s defensive formation.
The Two
The Two is a slow set directed toward the middle hitter in front of the setter.
This set is characterized by a high arc and hang time, allowing the middle hitter to choose the best angle and timing for their attack.
How To Execute?
To execute The Two sets, the setter should be close to the net and deliver the ball with a high arc to the middle hitter, who should be positioned in front of the setter.
The middle hitter approaches the ball from behind, timing their jump to make contact at the peak of the trajectory, and directs the attack based on the defense’s positioning.
When to use This Set?
The Two sets is best used when the setter and middle hitter need more time to coordinate their attack, or when the opposing team’s blockers effectively cover quick attacks.
This set allows the middle hitter to take advantage of gaps in the defense and choose the most effective angle for their attack.
Second Tempo
Second-tempo sets are faster than slow sets but slower than fast sets. These sets have a moderate height and speed, allowing hitters to approach and attack with more power and speed than a slow set but with more time for adjustment than a fast set.
Second tempo sets are suitable for situations where a balance between power and precision is needed or when the setter and hitter need extra time to establish communication and timing.
The Hut
The Hut is a second tempo set usually delivered to the outside hitter on the left side of the court.
It is faster than a slow set but not as fast as a quick set, providing a balance between height and speed that allows the hitter to attack with power and precision.
How To Execute?
To execute The Hut set, the setter stands near the net and delivers the ball with a moderate arc to the left side antenna.
The outside hitter should approach the ball from behind, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend, and direct their attack toward an open area of the court or exploit defensive weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The Hut set is best used when a balance between power and precision is needed, or when the setter and hitter require additional time to establish communication and timing.
This set is also suitable when the opposing team’s blockers are quick to respond to slow sets or when the defense is well-organized.
Red Set
The Red set is a second tempo set delivered to the right-side hitter. It is a quick set designed to exploit the right side of the court, providing an alternative to the more common Slide set.
How To Execute?
To execute the Red set, the setter should be close to the net, delivering the ball with a quick tempo and a low, flat trajectory.
The right-side hitter should approach the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend and direct their attack to exploit the defense’s weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The Red set is best used when the attacking team wants to diversify their right-side attacks and take advantage of the right-side hitter’s quickness and power.
It is particularly effective when the opposing team’s blockers are having difficulty reacting to variations in the right-side attack, and it can help create confusion in the opponent’s defense.
The 32
The 32 is a second tempo set aimed at the middle hitter. It is faster than a traditional high set to the middle but slower than a quick set, providing an opportunity for the middle hitter to attack with power while still having time to adjust.
How To Execute?
To execute The 32 set, the setter should be close to the net and deliver the ball with a moderate arc to the middle hitter, who should be positioned slightly to the left of the setter.
The middle hitter approaches the ball from behind, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend, and directs the attack based on the defense’s positioning.
When to use This Set?
The 32 set is ideal when a balance between power and precision is needed for the middle hitter, or when the opposing team’s blockers are effectively covering quick attacks.
This set allows the middle hitter to exploit gaps in the defense and choose the most effective angle for their attack.
The Red
The Red is a second tempo set delivered to the right-side hitter. It is faster than a slow set but slower than a quick set, allowing the right-side hitter to attack with power and precision while still having time to adjust.
How To Execute?
To execute The Red set, the setter should be near the net and aim to deliver the ball with a moderate arc to the right-side antenna.
The right-side hitter approaches the ball from behind, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend, and directs the attack toward an open area of the court or to exploit the defense’s weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The Red set is ideal when a balance between power and precision is needed for the right-side hitter, or when the opposing team’s blockers are quick to respond to slow sets.
This set also enables the right-side hitter to make adjustments based on the opponent’s defensive formation.
The Two (Second Tempo)
The Two (Second Tempo) is a moderate-height set directed toward the middle hitter in front of the setter.
This set is characterized by a balance between height and speed, allowing the middle hitter to attack with power while still having time to adjust their approach.
How To Execute?
To execute The Two (Second Tempo) set, the setter should be close to the net and deliver the ball with a moderate arc to the middle hitter, who should be positioned in front of the setter.
The middle hitter approaches the ball from behind, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend, and directs the attack based on the defense’s positioning.
When to use This Set?
The Two (Second Tempo) set is best used when a balance between power and precision is needed for the middle hitter, or when the opposing team’s blockers are effectively covering quick attacks.
This set allows the middle hitter to take advantage of gaps in the defense and choose the most effective angle for their attack.
It is also suitable for situations when the setter and middle hitter require additional time to establish communication and timing, or when the opposing team’s blockers are quick to respond to slower sets.
Push 1 Set
The Push 1 set is a second tempo set delivered to the middle hitter. It is a quick set executed slightly behind the setter, providing a variation in the middle attack.
How To Execute?
To execute the Push 1 set, the setter should be close to the net, delivering the ball with a quick tempo and a slightly higher arc than a standard middle set.
The middle hitter should approach the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend and direct their attack to exploit the defense’s weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The Push 1 set is best used when the attacking team wants to diversify their middle attacks and catch the opposing blockers off guard.
It is particularly effective when the opposing team’s middle blockers are focused on traditional middle sets and can help create openings in the defense.
Back 2 Set
The Back 2 set is a second-tempo set for the right-side hitter. It is a quick set that targets the right side of the court, providing an alternative to the more common Red set.
How To Execute?
To execute the Back 2 set, the setter should be close to the net, delivering the ball with a quick tempo and a higher trajectory than a Red set.
The right-side hitter should approach the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend and direct their attack to exploit the defense’s weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The Back 2 set is best used when the attacking team wants to diversify their right-side attacks and take advantage of the right-side hitter’s quickness and power. It is particularly effective when the opposing team’s blockers are having difficulty reacting to variations in the right-side attack, and it can help create confusion in the opponent’s defense.
Fast (First Tempo)
Fast sets, or first tempo sets, are characterized by their low trajectory and quick execution. These sets require precise timing between the setter and the hitter, as the ball is set quickly and with a minimal arc.
Fast sets aim to catch the opposing team off guard, exploiting the defense’s reaction time and creating opportunities for powerful, aggressive attacks.
These sets are ideal for situations when speed is essential, or when the attacking team wants to maintain an aggressive and fast-paced offense.
GO Set
The GO set is a fast, first-tempo set delivered to the outside hitter on the left side of the court.
It is similar to The Shoot but with a slightly higher trajectory, giving the hitter more time to adjust and position themselves for a powerful attack.
How To Execute?
To execute the GO set, the setter should be close to the net and deliver the ball with a quick speed and a slightly higher arc than The Shoot set, aiming for the left-side antenna.
The outside hitter should approach the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend and direct their attack to exploit the defense’s weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The GO set is best used when speed is essential, or when the attacking team wants to maintain an aggressive and fast-paced offense.
This set is particularly effective against slower or less organized defenses and can help exploit gaps in the defense.
It is also useful when the outside hitter requires slightly more time to adjust their position and approach compared to The Shoot set.
The Shoot
The Shoot is a fast, first-tempo set delivered to the outside hitter on the left side of the court.
This set has a low trajectory and minimal hang time, requiring precise timing between the setter and hitter to execute a quick and aggressive attack.
How To Execute?
To execute The Shoot set, the setter stands near the net and delivers the ball with a low arc and quick speed to the left side antenna.
The outside hitter should approach the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend and direct their attack to exploit the defense’s vulnerabilities.
When to use This Set?
The Shoot set is best used when speed is essential or when the attacking team wants to maintain an aggressive and fast-paced offense.
This set is particularly effective against slower or less organized defenses.
The Half Shoot
The Half Shoot is a fast set delivered to the middle hitter, typically between the setter and the left side antenna.
This set is characterized by a low trajectory and quick execution, requiring precise timing and coordination between the setter and the hitter.
How To Execute?
To execute The Half Shoot set, the setter should be close to the net and deliver the ball with a low arc and quick speed toward the middle hitter.
The middle hitter approaches the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend, and directs the attack based on the defense’s positioning.
When to use This Set?
The Half Shoot set is ideal for situations when the attacking team wants to maintain an aggressive and fast-paced offense, or when the opposing team’s blockers are struggling to react to quick attacks.
This set can also help exploit gaps in the defense and catch the opponents off guard.
The 31
The 31 is a fast, first-tempo set aimed at the middle hitter, typically to the left of the setter. This set has a low trajectory and minimal hang time, allowing the middle hitter to execute a quick and powerful attack.
How To Execute?
To execute The 31 set, the setter should be close to the net and deliver the ball with a low arc and quick speed to the middle hitter, who should be positioned slightly to the left of the setter.
The middle hitter approaches the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend, and directs the attack based on the defense’s positioning.
When to use This Set?
The 31 set is best used when speed is essential, or when the attacking team wants to maintain an aggressive and fast-paced offense.
This set can help exploit gaps in the defense and catch the opponents off guard, particularly if the opposing team’s blockers are struggling to react to quick attacks.
Pipe Set
The Pipe set is a fast, first-tempo set delivered to a back-row hitter, typically in the middle-back position. This set is designed for a powerful back-row attack and is executed with a flat trajectory.
How To Execute?
To execute the Pipe set, the setter should deliver the ball with a fast tempo and a flat trajectory, targeting the area above the 3-meter line in the middle-back position.
The back-row hitter should approach the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend, and direct their attack to exploit the defense’s weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The Pipe set is best used when the attacking team wants to incorporate a back-row attack into their offensive strategy.
It is particularly effective when the front-row options are limited or well-defended, allowing the team to maintain offensive pressure from the back row.
5 Set
The 5 set is a fast, first-tempo set delivered to a back-row hitter. This set is designed for a powerful back-row attack, providing an additional offensive option.
How To Execute?
To execute the 5 set, the setter should deliver the ball with a fast tempo and a flat trajectory, targeting the area above the 3-meter line.
The back-row hitter should approach the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend and direct their attack to exploit the defense’s weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The 5 set is best used when the attacking team wants to incorporate a back-row attack into their offensive strategy.
It is particularly effective when the front-row options are limited or well-defended, allowing the team to maintain offensive pressure from the back row.
The One
The One is a fast, first-tempo set directed to the middle hitter in front of the setter. This set is characterized by its low trajectory and quick execution, enabling the middle hitter to attack aggressively and catch the defense off guard.
How To Execute?
To execute The One set, the setter should be close to the net and deliver the ball with a low arc and quick speed to the middle hitter, who should be positioned in front of the setter.
The middle hitter approaches the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend, and directs the attack based on the defense’s positioning.
When to use This Set?
The One set is best used when speed is essential or when the attacking team wants to maintain an aggressive and fast-paced offense.
This set can help exploit gaps in the defense and catch the opponents off guard, particularly if the opposing team’s blockers are struggling to react to quick attacks.
D Set
The D set is a fast, first-tempo set delivered to a back-row hitter, typically in the left-back position. This set is designed for a powerful back-row attack and is executed with a flat trajectory.
How To Execute?
To execute the D set, the setter should deliver the ball with a fast tempo and a flat trajectory, targeting the area above the 3-meter line in the left-back position.
The back-row hitter should approach the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend and direct their attack to exploit the defense’s weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The D set is best used when the attacking team wants to incorporate a back-row attack into their offensive strategy, particularly from the left-back position.
It is effective when the front-row options are limited or well-defended, allowing the team to maintain offensive pressure from the back row.
The Back One
The Back One is a fast, first-tempo set delivered to the middle hitter behind the setter. This set has a low trajectory and minimal hang time, enabling the middle hitter to execute a quick and aggressive attack from the back row.
How To Execute?
To execute The Back One set, the setter should be close to the net and deliver the ball with a low arc and quick speed to the middle hitter, who should be positioned behind the setter.
The middle hitter approaches the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend, and directs the attack based on the defense’s positioning.
When to use This Set?
The Back One set is best used when speed is essential, or when the attacking team wants to maintain an aggressive and fast-paced offense from the back row.
This set can help exploit gaps in the defense and catch the opponents off guard, particularly if the opposing team’s blockers are struggling to react to quick attacks from the back row.
The Slide
The Slide is a fast, first-tempo set delivered to the right-side hitter, who approaches the ball with a running start. This set is characterized by its low trajectory and quick execution, allowing the right-side hitter to attack aggressively while moving laterally along the net.
How To Execute?
To execute The Slide set, the setter should be close to the net and deliver the ball with a low arc and quick speed to the right-side hitter, who starts their approach with a running start from behind the setter.
The right-side hitter times their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend and directs the attack based on the defense’s positioning.
When to use This Set?
The Slide set is best used when speed is essential, or when the attacking team wants to maintain an aggressive and fast-paced offense from the right side.
This set can help exploit gaps in the defense and catch the opponents off guard, particularly if the opposing team’s blockers are struggling to react to quick attacks.
The Slide is also effective in creating one-on-one situations between the hitter and the blocker, increasing the likelihood of a successful attack.
B Set
The B set is a fast, first-tempo set delivered to a back-row hitter, typically in the right-back position. This set is designed for a powerful back-row attack and is executed with a flat trajectory.
How To Execute?
To execute the B set, the setter should deliver the ball with a fast tempo and a flat trajectory, targeting the area above the 3-meter line in the right-back position.
The back-row hitter should approach the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend and direct their attack to exploit the defense’s weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The B set is best used when the attacking team wants to incorporate a back-row attack into their offensive strategy, particularly from the right-back position.
It is effective when the front-row options are limited or well-defended, allowing the team to maintain offensive pressure from the back row.
C Set
The C set is a fast, first tempo set delivered to a back-row hitter, typically in the middle-back position. It is similar to the Pipe set but executed with a slightly higher trajectory, providing the back-row hitter with more time to adjust their approach.
How To Execute?
To execute the C set, the setter should deliver the ball with a fast tempo and a slightly higher trajectory than the Pipe set, targeting the area above the 3-meter line in the middle-back position.
The back-row hitter should approach the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend, and direct their attack to exploit the defense’s weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The C set is best used when the attacking team wants to incorporate a back-row attack into their offensive strategy and the back-row hitter requires slightly more time to adjust their approach compared to the Pipe set.
It is effective when the front-row options are limited or well-defended, allowing the team to maintain offensive pressure from the back row.
Back Row Quick Attack (BIC) Set
The BIC set is a fast, first tempo set delivered to a back-row hitter, typically in the middle-back position. This set is designed for a powerful back-row attack and is executed with a low, flat trajectory, providing an additional offensive option.
How To Execute?
To execute the BIC set, the setter should deliver the ball with a fast tempo and a low, flat trajectory, targeting the area above the 3-meter line in the middle-back position. The back-row hitter should approach the ball quickly, timing their jump to make contact as the ball begins to descend, and direct their attack to exploit the defense’s weaknesses.
When to use This Set?
The BIC set is best used when the attacking team wants to incorporate a back-row attack into their offensive strategy, particularly when they want to surprise the opposing blockers with a quick and powerful back-row attack. It is effective when the front-row options are limited or well-defended, allowing the team to maintain offensive pressure from the back row.
There are other sets in volleyball that we haven’t discussed yet. Some of these additional sets include:
- The 9 Set: A high set delivered to the right-side hitter, similar to the Four set but for the right side. It is a slower set that provides the hitter time to adjust their approach and attack.
- The 10 Set: A high set to the left-side hitter, similar to the Four set but with a higher trajectory, allowing the hitter more time to position themselves for an attack.
- The 51 Set: A quick, low set to the middle hitter, executed closer to the setter. It is a variation of the 31 set, designed to exploit gaps in the opposing team’s defense.
- The Gap Set: A medium-height set to the middle hitter, placed between the two blockers. It is intended to take advantage of the space between the blockers and catch them off, guard.
- The J Set: A back-row attack set with a higher trajectory, delivered to the left-side hitter. The J set provides more time for the hitter to approach and adjust their attack, especially when the front-row options are limited or well-defended.
These sets are just a few more examples of the variety of sets available in volleyball. Different teams and coaches may have their own unique sets and playstyles that suit their players’ strengths and the team’s strategy.
Conclusion
Mastering various set types allows a team to create a versatile and dynamic offense, making it more difficult for the opposing team’s blockers and defenders to predict and react to attacks.
A diverse set of offensive options enables a team to adapt and adjust its strategy according to the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses, enhancing its chances of success.
Proficiency in different set types facilitates improved communication and trust between setters and hitters, contributing to a cohesive and effective team dynamic.
