Dump
The setter's own attack on the second contact. You show a set, wait for the blockers to move with your hitters, then tip, push, or one-hand the ball into the open space. A front-row setter can dump a ball that is completely above the net. A back-row setter can only attack a ball that is partly below the top of the net, unless they jump from behind the attack line. That is the same rule as any other back-row attack.
Example
The setter shapes like she is setting the outside. The blockers slide that way. She tips the second ball just over the net, into the space they left.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should a setter dump the ball?
When the blockers have committed to your hitters and left open floor near the net. A few well-timed dumps in a match make the other team hesitate. If you dump on the same pass every time, they will start waiting for it.
Can a back-row setter dump the ball?
Only under the back-row attack rule. If the ball is completely above the net, a back-row setter has to jump from behind the attack line. If part of the ball is below the top of the net at contact, they can push it over from in front of the line.