This Sportplan Session looks at developing your players' defensive ability from the backcourt area through movement, ball control and communication.
Defending the backcourt
Use this plan to make sure your players are ready to cover the backcourt area at all times, which can sometimes involve moving from the zones they are positioned in to help teammates.
Even if it is not your player's zone position, the need for him/her to work on their backcourt defence is vital because there will come points in the game when a player has to cover a teammate who has been pushed out of position by an opponent's return shot.
It is easy to defend a ball when you know where it is coming from, so the drills in this plan mimic a game situation by developing your players ability to react quickly to defend a ball and pass it to the setter, then move into position ready to defend again.
Communication
The plan also looks at developing your players on court communication to ensure they are moving into zonal areas they are not positioned in, to cover teammates.
Communication is vital when there are long rallies and players are being pushed out of position, because it will stop players colliding, and bunching together leaving spaces on the court for your opponent to spike and win points.
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.
Register for FREE and get coaching tips, top drills, session and more every week!
