3-Man Weave

Purpose:
This drill emphasizes ball control and recovery from chaotic situations.

What You Need:
– Set up 3 lines at the service line.
– Everyone in the middle line needs to have a ball.

How It Works:
1. The 1st player in the middle line tosses the ball to the person on their right.
2. They then move behind the person they tossed the ball to.
3. Simultaneously, the 1st person in the right line receives the ball and performs a bump pass to the 1st person in the left line.
4. They then move behind that person.
5. The 1st person in the left line receives the ball and completes a bump pass back to the person who started in the middle line.
6. This cycle continues as the 3 players move toward the net, sprinting to their positions, stopping, and making a great pass.
7. After the team completes 10 passes without the ball hitting the floor, you can move to setting passes or other types of passes.

Results & Tips:
– Players essentially follow their ball, always going around behind the player they passed to and running ahead to receive a pass.
– For advanced teams, you can challenge your players with a bump, set, and spike cycle as they progress toward the net. This forces players to control hits, communicate, and recover from a shank.
– Communicating is crucial so players know where to pass to and work together.
– You can have your players stop at the net, play under the net, or play over the net, continuing to the opposite service line.

Tips for Younger Athletes:
– Emphasize the importance of watching the ball all the way from the toss to the bump pass. Younger players often lose focus on the ball, leading to missed passes. Encourage them to keep their eyes on the ball until it’s securely in their hands.
– Teach them to call out the name of the player they are passing to. This not only improves communication but also helps them to focus on their target, which is essential for accurate passes.
– Encourage proper positioning and posture during the bump pass. Young players should learn to bend their knees and keep their arms straight and together for a controlled pass. This basic technique will improve their overall game as they progress.

Tips for Older Athletes:
– Introduce variations in the speed of the drill to simulate game-like conditions. Older players can benefit from practicing under different paces, helping them adapt to the quick changes often seen in matches.
– Focus on precision and control in their passes. Encourage players to aim for specific targets or areas, refining their ability to control the ball under pressure and in movement.
– Incorporate elements of strategic play, such as feinting or deceptive passes, to enhance their gameplay. This not only improves their technical skills but also their tactical understanding of the game.