Beach Doubles: Call Line or Angle

A 2-on-2 beach-style game on the blacktop where, before the third contact, the partner who set shouts "line" or "angle" based on where they see the open spot. Students practice partner communication, reading the other court, and placing the ball.

How to play

1. Draw 20 x 20 ft courts in chalk on each side of the net; each pair plays another pair (2 min).
2. Explain the calls: "line" means sending the ball straight down the sideline and "angle" means sending it crosscourt; the setter looks at the other side before calling (2 min).
3. Cooperative walk-through for 4 min: one pair sends easy tosses, the other passes, sets, and the hitter sends the ball with a set or bump to the called side (4 min).
4. Game to 11: an attack that goes to the called side and wins the rally is worth 2; if it goes to the opposite side, only 1 (8 min).
5. Change opponents by moving up and down courts, then ask: where was the open spot most often? (4 min).

Rules

• The setter calls before the partner contacts the ball, not after.
• No blocking or hard spikes; the third contact is a placed shot.
• Play with three contacts; catching the serve is allowed only in the easier version.
• Walk outside the courts when switching courts.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: use a smaller court and allow a bounce before each contact.
• Hearing impairment: make the call by pointing with an extended arm.
• Lower fitness level: shorter games to 7 points with rest between games.

Learning goals

• Tell a partner the best attacking option.
• Read the opponents' positions before deciding.
• Place the third contact in a specific area.

Equipment for a class of 25

• volleyballs: 4
• nets: 2
• chalk: 6

Teacher tip

In beach volleyball, partners really do help the hitter with these calls; mention it so the task feels authentic. If nobody calls, stop play and restart with a serve.

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