Blocking Footwork: Shuffle and Jump at the Net
Partners on opposite sides of the net learn the individual block: shuffle along the net, jump with hands above it, and seal the angle on a held or tossed ball. Students practice blocking technique, vertical jumping, and safe landings.
How to play
- Use flat disc cones to mark three spots along the net: left, middle, and right front. Partners face each other across the net (2 min).
- Mirror with no ball (4 min): the leader shuffles to a spot and jumps; the partner mirrors on the other side and jumps at the same time, palms facing above the net.
- Block a held ball (4 min): a teammate by the net holds the ball above it with arms fully extended; the blocker jumps and covers it with both hands.
- Block a tossed ball (4 min): the teammate tosses the ball straight up just above the net and the blocker pushes it back with firm hands.
- Switch roles every 6 jumps. Finish with gentle calf and shoulder stretches (1 min).
Rules
- Do not touch the net with any part of your body.
- Land where you took off, on both feet, without crossing the center line.
- Hands go up together and firm with fingers spread, never swinging at the other player.
Variations
Easier
Net lowered to about 7 feet and blocking on tiptoe with no jump.
Standard
Shuffle, jump, and block a ball tossed above the net.
Harder
The partner mixes a controlled attack with a tip, and the blocker must decide whether to jump.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: block seated with a low net or rope and a soft tossed ball.
- Autism: a step-by-step demonstration with a model pair before each phase.
- Lower fitness: limit sets to four jumps in a row.
Learning goals
- Shuffle parallel to the net.
- Block with both hands above the net.
- Land safely without crossing into the other court.
Equipment for a class of 25
- volleyballs: 8
- low net: 2
- flat disc cones: 12
Teacher tip
Watch the landing: that is when students step on each other's feet. Remind them to press their hands over into the other court, not just straight up.
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