2 players stand on either side of the net. One player overhand passes to their team mate who sets the ball back for a spike down the line.
On the other side of the net, one blocker stands at the net and attempts to cover a cross court shot, while a digger is at the back of the court, and has to attempt to dig the ball either to their team mate or back over the net.
Two players are involved in defense action. They need to work together and cover at least half of their side of the court.
If coach wants to focus on digging mostly, then the blocker can become another receiver at the back of the court, ready to receive and dig a cross court shot.
When the first pass breaks down, most teams collapse into a high ball straight into the opposing block. The best 2026 sides are building structured out-of-system offences that turn broken plays into scoring chances using libero sets, left-side options and disciplined hitter routes.
The modern pipe attack has evolved from a high middle-back set into a flat, fast weapon that arrives at quick tempo. Coaches at every level are now drilling it as a primary scoring option, forcing blockers into impossible decisions and unlocking four-hitter offences.
The back row attack adds a powerful offensive dimension that stretches the opposing block and creates scoring opportunities from unexpected positions. This guide covers the rules, approach footwork, setter-hitter timing, and progressive training methods for introducing back row attacks to developing teams.
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