Volleyball Mirror: Ready Position and Footwork
A partner game where a leader moves around a square of poly spots doing volleyball moves, and the partner copies them like a mirror, always in the ready position. Students learn the ready stance, side shuffles, forward and back steps, and reacting to a cue.
How to play
- Partners face each other 6 feet apart, each with 4 poly spots marking a 10×10-foot square around each player (2 min).
- Teach the ready position: feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, weight forward, and arms loose in front (1 min).
- Round 1 (3 min): the leader shuffles side to side between their spots, and the mirror copies in their own square without crossing feet; switch roles every 45 seconds.
- Round 2 (3 min): the leader adds volleyball moves at each spot (air set, forearm platform, serve with no ball), and the mirror copies them.
- Round 3 (3 min): the leader has a light ball; when tossing it to one side of the mirror, the mirror must move and catch it in bump or set position, depending on height.
- Finish (2 min): the whole class mirrors the teacher, who mixes footwork and moves faster and faster.
Rules
- Each player moves only inside their own square of spots.
- Use short steps without crossing the feet; move backward slowly.
- The leader must move at a pace the mirror can follow: the goal is copying, not tricking.
- When switching roles, partners high-five.
Variations
Easier
Use only side shuffles, and the leader points to show the direction.
Standard
Footwork in all directions, volleyball moves, and the final toss.
Harder
The mirror must do the opposite move (if the leader sets, the mirror bumps).
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: in a wheelchair, copies the arm moves and moves side to side in a smaller square.
- Visual impairment: the leader describes each move out loud ("Two steps to your right"), and partners work closer together.
- Lower fitness: rounds last 2 min with rests in between.
Learning goals
- Get into the volleyball ready position.
- Move sideways, forward, and back without crossing the feet.
- React quickly to a partner's movements.
Equipment for a class of 25
- poly spots: 100
- light balls: 13
Teacher tip
Fix posture while students are standing with no ball; it's easier than mid-game. If leaders try to trick, remind them the winning pair moves as one.
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