Have you ever struggled to control the ball while playing volleyball? Underhand passes are often a challenge for beginners because they seem easy at first glance, but they actually require coordination, balance, and precise technique to ensure the ball doesn't miss.
This article will cover the volleyball underhand passing technique specifically for beginners. You'll learn everything from body, hand, and foot positioning, to controlling the ball's direction, practical exercises, and tips for avoiding common mistakes on the court.
What is an Underhand Pass in Volleyball?
The underhand volleyball pass is a basic technique for controlling the ball by bouncing it from below. The main goal is to keep the ball in play and set up the team's attack, allowing for more fluid play.
This technique involves multiple body parts, including the feet, knees, arms, and hands. With proper positioning and movement, the underhand pass helps players bounce the ball accurately to their intended target.
Furthermore, underhand passing speeds up defensive reactions and makes it easier for the team to build attacks. Mastering this technique also plays a crucial role in team strategy, ensuring a stable game rhythm.
Mistakes in underhand passing often result in the ball going out of bounds or bouncing too high. Therefore, understanding the concepts and characteristics of the movement from the beginning makes training more effective, safe, and enjoyable for beginners.
Also read: Basic Volleyball Passing Technique Guide for Beginners
Basic Volleyball Underhand Passing Techniques
1. Starting Body Position
Before executing an underhand pass , you should be in a ready position. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, your knees slightly bent, and your waist slightly bent. This position allows you to move in all directions easily and maintain your balance when the ball arrives.
Your weight should be evenly distributed on both feet, not on one side. This posture allows you to react more quickly and minimizes the risk of the ball going out of control. I often tell my training partners that body position is 50% of the success of an underhand pass.
2. Hand and Arm Position
The hands and arms are the primary tools for underhand passing. Keep your hands together, your wrists relaxed, and create a stable platform for the ball to bounce smoothly.
Your arm should be tight enough to direct the ball, but not too stiff. If it's stiff, the ball could bounce high or miss the target. Remember, a relaxed but controlled arm is key to accuracy.
3. Foot Stance and Balance
Foot position is also important. Your feet should be shoulder-level, your knees slightly bent, and your weight balanced. This position will allow you to move forward, backward, or sideways depending on the direction of the ball.
Good balance prevents falls and maintains control of the ball. I often recommend quick squat-stand drills to improve leg stability when receiving the ball.
4. Correct Ball Contact
The ball should contact the hand platform, right between the wrist and elbow. Ensure the ball hits the hand at the correct angle and with the appropriate force.
A common mistake is hitting the ball too hard or too weakly. With proper contact, the ball will be directed, easy to control, and can be passed directly to a teammate.
5. Direction and Control of Passing
An underhand pass isn't just about holding the ball. You must be able to direct the ball to the desired target. Use hand-eye coordination and body rhythm to adjust the direction and power of the bounce.
This drill will improve accuracy, prepare you for the opponent's attack, and support your team's overall strategy. As you get used to it, your ball direction will become more consistent and your control of the game will improve.
Also read: Volleyball Blocking Techniques Guide to Surprise Your Opponent
Volleyball Underhand Pass Variations
1. Static Underhand Pass
A static underhand pass is performed by holding the body still while bouncing the ball. This variation is suitable for beginners because it allows them to focus on accuracy and ball control without moving too much.
Static drills help you understand the correct hand placement and ball bounce angle. With consistency, your receiving ability will become more stable and confident.
2. Moving Underhand Pass
The underhand pass involves moving the feet and body in the direction of the ball. This drill trains reflexes, reaction time, and the ability to adjust position when the ball comes from different angles.
The variety of movements also accustoms players to real-world situations on the pitch. You'll be better prepared to move left, right, or forward and backward while maintaining control of the ball.
3. One-Hand Underhand Pass
The one-handed underhand pass is typically used when the ball is coming quickly or when the body is restricted. This technique helps players develop flexibility in receiving the ball in less than ideal conditions.
This variation requires precision and improvisation due to the limited range of motion. With regular practice, one-handed skills can improve response speed and accuracy in emergencies.
4. Bottom Passing with an Exercise Ball
Underhand passes using a practice ball can be practiced at home or on an empty field. This method allows players to improve their bounce consistency and accuracy before facing a real match.
Training with specialized balls also allows for variations in distance, speed, and angle. You can gradually adjust the difficulty level to further develop your skills.
Also read: Volleyball Smash Technique Practice to be Stronger and More Accurate
Effective Tips for Learning Volleyball Underhand Passing
The underhand volleyball pass is a basic technique for controlling the ball by bouncing it from below. The primary goal is to keep the ball in play and set up the team's attack, ensuring a smoother and more effective flow of play.
This technique involves multiple body parts, from the feet, knees, arms, and hands. With proper positioning and movement, the underhand pass allows the player to bounce the ball to the desired target accurately and consistently.
Furthermore, underhand passing speeds up defensive reactions and makes it easier for the team to build attacks. Mastering this technique also significantly impacts team strategy, ensuring a stable and controlled game rhythm.
Mistakes in underhand passing often result in the ball going out of bounds or bouncing too high. Therefore, understanding the concepts and characteristics of the movement from the beginning makes training more effective, safe, and enjoyable for beginners.
Start Volleyball Underhand Passing Practice with SVRG Equipment
Mastering the underhand pass in volleyball is a fundamental skill. With proper technique, you'll have easier ball control, improve accuracy, and build solid teamwork.
To practice your volleyball underhand passing, SVRG provides quality sports equipment such as agility ladders for footwork training, skipping ropes to increase stamina, and kinesio tape to prevent injuries.
So, don't wait any longer. Start practicing regularly using SVRG equipment, apply the safety tips and techniques explained above, and feel your passing skills improve. Visit SVRG now to get the best training equipment and improve your volleyball skills today.
