Opposite volleyball

The opposite in volleyball is a player positioned on the right side of the court and placed directly opposite the setter in the rotation. This role is commonly referred to as the opposite hitter or right-side hitter.

The opposite is a key all-round position with a strong emphasis on attacking and blocking. In many teams, the opposite is one of the primary scorers and plays a major role in neutralizing the opponent’s strongest attackers.

Why the opposite position is important

The opposite volleyball position is essential for maintaining balance within the team structure. Because the opposite rotates opposite the setter, this player often becomes the main attacking option when the setter is in the front row and cannot attack.

Key reasons why the opposite is so important:

• Provides a constant attacking option from the right side
• Takes responsibility for blocking the opponent’s outside hitter
• Helps stabilize the team in out-of-system and high-pressure moments

At higher levels, the opposite is often relied upon when plays break down. A strong opposite can turn difficult situations into scoring opportunities.

Drills for opposites

u18, Seniors

Urk

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u18, Seniors

Yes or no

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u18, Seniors

Decking round

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u18, Seniors

Triple left

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Seniors

Lane

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u18, Seniors

Shadow Transition

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Rotation and court positioning of the opposite

Understanding rotation is crucial to fully understanding the opposite position in volleyball.

Front-row rotations

When the opposite is in the front row (positions 2 and 3):

• They attack mainly from the right side (position 2)
• They are responsible for blocking the opponent’s outside hitter
• They may be involved in quick transition plays

In these rotations, the opposite must be ready to both score and defend at the net.

Back-row rotations

When the opposite is in the back row (positions 1 and 6):

• They may attack from behind the three-meter line
• They support defense and transition
• In some systems, they are excluded from serve receive

Because opposites often stay out of serve receive, they can focus on preparing for attack, especially in back-row rotations.

Serve-receive responsibilities of the opposite

Whether an opposite participates in serve receive depends on the team’s tactical system and player profile.

• Traditional system: the opposite does not pass and focuses on attacking and blocking
• Modified systems: the opposite may help pass when the team lacks passers
• Youth volleyball: opposites often pass to develop all-round skills

Removing the opposite from serve receive allows them to be a stronger attacking option, especially in fast-paced offenses.

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Main responsibilities of the opposite

The volleyball opposite hitter has multiple responsibilities that influence both offense and defense.

Attacking from the right side

Opposites primarily attack from position 2. This angle is different from left-side attacks and requires strong wrist control, timing, and shot variety. Many opposites specialize in scoring against well-formed blocks.

Blocking the opponent’s outside hitter

One of the most critical tasks of the opposite is blocking. Since the opponent’s outside hitter often receives the most sets, the opposite must be able to read the setter, close the block, and take away key attacking angles.

Supporting transition and defense

Opposites must quickly switch from defense to offense. This transition speed is especially important in rallies where the team is under pressure.

Key skills for an effective opposite

To perform well in the opposite volleyball position, players need a combination of physical, technical, and mental skills.

Important qualities include:

• Powerful but controlled attacking technique
• Strong lateral movement and blocking fundamentals
• Tactical awareness and adaptability
• Confidence and composure under pressure

While physical power is valuable, intelligent decision-making and consistency often separate good opposites from great ones.

Physical profile of an opposite hitter

Opposites are often among the tallest and strongest players on the team, but height alone does not define the position.

Typical physical traits:

• Strong vertical jump and reach
• Upper-body strength for attacking and blocking
• Quick footwork for lateral blocking movement

For shorter players, timing, shot selection, and speed can compensate for lack of height. Many successful opposites rely on precision and smart play rather than pure power.

Difference between an opposite and an outside hitter

The opposite hitter and outside hitter are often confused, but their roles are different.

Key differences:

• The opposite attacks mainly from the right side, the outside from the left
• The opposite usually blocks the outside hitter, not the middle blocker
• The outside hitter almost always participates in serve receive

While outside hitters must be strong passers, opposites are more specialized in attacking and blocking.

Match situations where the opposite is crucial

The importance of the opposite becomes most visible in specific match situations.

Common examples include:

• Out-of-system plays: when the setter cannot deliver a perfect set
• High-pressure side-out situations: where a reliable scorer is needed
• Blocking against a dominant outside hitter: to slow down the opponent’s offense

In these moments, the opposite often carries a large share of responsibility.

Opposite drills and exercises

Training the opposite position should reflect match demands such as right-side attacking, blocking against strong hitters, and fast transitions. The exact content of training depends on age, level, and team system.

On VolleyballXL you can find volleyball drills for all positions, including targeted volleyball exercises for opposite hitters and diagonal players. This allows coaches to select drills that match their team’s level and focus on the specific demands of the opposite position.

Common mistakes of opposite players (and solutions)

• Attacking too close to the antenna → Start the approach earlier and create attacking space
• Late blocking timing → Focus on reading the setter instead of the hitter
• Too much focus on power → Use variation, shots, and block-outs

Addressing these mistakes improves efficiency and reduces unforced errors.

Who is the opposite position suitable for?

The opposite volleyball position is ideal for players who enjoy responsibility and pressure, are confident attackers, and are willing to invest time in blocking and tactical understanding.

At youth level, opposites often rotate through multiple roles. At senior and performance levels, specialization becomes more common.

The opposite is one of the most influential positions in volleyball. By understanding rotation, responsibilities, and match situations, players and coaches can better utilize the volleyball opposite hitter and strengthen the overall team structure.

Frequently asked questions about the opposite position