Digging off the Box

The teacher stands on a bench next to the net and hits controlled balls into the back court while three defenders dig them up to a target. Students practice a low defensive base, reading the hitter's arm, and reacting quickly.

How to play

1. The teacher stands on a gym bench at the left front by the net. Three defenders cover the back row, a target stands in a hoop at the middle front, and the rest line up behind the end line (2 min).
2. The teacher hits at half speed toward one defender, who digs the ball high to the target (5 min).
3. After each ball, the defender steps out and the next player in line takes that spot; the target changes every 5 balls.
4. Phase 2 (6 min): the teacher mixes harder hits and short tips; defenders must move forward when they read the tip.
5. Final challenge (5 min): the group scores one point for every dig that reaches the target and tries to beat its record.

Rules

• Defenders wait with bent knees and weight forward, never standing tall.
• Only the teacher or a trusted student hits from the bench, always under control.
• Defenders do not dive; if they cannot reach it, they let it go.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: take the target spot, or dig seated with a soft ball that is tossed.
• Hearing impairment: the teacher raises the ball before each hit as a visual warning.
• Developing players: slower, higher tosses for more time to get set.

Learning goals

• Get into a low defensive base before the attack.
• Read the hitter's arm to anticipate direction.
• Dig the ball high to the setting zone.

Equipment for a class of 25

• volleyballs: 12
• gym bench: 1
• hoops: 2

Teacher tip

Make sure the bench is stable and away from the net. The common mistake is swinging the arms at the ball: cue a still platform and absorbing with the legs.

More main activities for High School