Middle Blocker Volleyball drills

The middle blocker is a central figure on the volleyball court. Their primary role is to block opposing attacks at the net, thereby scoring points or preventing the opposing team from scoring. A successful middle blocker needs to have a combination of height, agility, and quick reflexes. Throughout a match, the middle blocker will repeatedly jump to intercept or deflect the ball, making their presence at the net crucial for the team’s defensive strategy. Check out volleyball middle hitter drills.

Drills for Middle blockers

u18, Seniors

Shot!

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u18, Seniors

Run, Forrest, Run!

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u18, Seniors

32 (9,12 players)

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u12, u18

Mat 1

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u18, Seniors

Turn and grab

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u12, u18, Seniors

All in one

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Middle Blocker Drills

o hone the skills required for this pivotal position, middle blocker drills are essential. These drills focus on improving timing, jump height, lateral movement, and blocking technique. Some common middle blocker drills include shadow blocking, where the player practices their footwork and jumping without a ball, and block-touch drills, where the aim is to touch or deflect as many balls as possible. Through consistent practice with middle blocker drills, players can enhance their net presence and become a formidable force on the court.

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Blocking Drills for middle blockers

A primary responsibility of middle blockers is to block the opponent’s attacks. Drills like ‘Read and React’ help improve a blocker’s ability to quickly read the hitter’s approach and body language. In this drill, a coach or player simulates various attacking shots, and the middle blocker must react and adjust their block accordingly. ‘Wall Blocking’ is another effective drill where players practice their blocking form against a wall, focusing on hand positioning and footwork.

Attacking Drills for middle blockers

Middle blockers are also key attackers, especially in quick middle attacks. Drills that enhance a middle blocker’s attacking skills include ‘Quick Sets,’ where setters deliver fast balls to blockers, training them to hit efficiently with limited reaction time. ‘Transition Drills’ are also crucial, where players practice quickly transitioning from a blocking position to an attacking position, emphasizing speed and agility.

Footwork Drills

Quick and efficient footwork is vital for a middle blocker. Drills like ‘Ladder Drills’ improve agility and foot speed, essential for moving across the net for blocks and attacks. ‘T-Drills,’ where players move in a T-shape pattern, help enhance lateral and forward movement, crucial for covering the court effectively.

Conditioning Drills

Middle blockers require excellent physical conditioning. Drills that combine volleyball skills with conditioning, such as ‘Block-Jump-Attack’ circuits, are beneficial. In this drill, players perform a series of blocks, followed by jumps and attacks, without rest, mimicking the continuous movement in games.

Mental Toughness Drills

Middle blockers must make split-second decisions. Drills that simulate game-like scenarios, requiring quick decision-making under pressure, are essential. These volleyballs drills not only improve physical skills but also enhance mental toughness and game intelligence.