Middle Blocker
Your first-tempo attacker and your net anchor. She lives in zone 3 (or slides to 2), runs 1-sets, 31-sets, and one-foot slide attacks, then races to close with the pins on defense. Because FIVB lets you replace any back-row player with the libero, most teams pull the MB in zone 1 or 4 for the yellow jersey, then reverse to keep her fresh for the next front-row turn.
Example
She reads a high outside release, two steps, seals with the right pin, the ball is straight down, point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a middle blocker do in volleyball?
Defend: close blocks, help on pins, be late less. Offend: be on time for quicks so the other middle cannot camp outside. The job is sprint, jump, read, repeat.
Why do middle blockers sub out for the libero?
In the back row you cannot block, and most middles are not the best passers. Swapping a libero for a big keeps your floor defense elite without wasting a 6'5" body chasing serves.