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Off-Speed

Any attack disguised as a full swing but delivered with less pace—tips, roll shots, and dinks. Used when the block is big and defenders are deep, because the slower ball drops into the gap between the block and the back row.

Example

The block pins, the D is six feet off, and the MH rolls short with heavy shape. The libero was still moving backward.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should you use an off-speed shot in volleyball?

When the defense has cheated to your fastball. Keep your approach honest, then change the last six inches of hand speed. That is how you stay efficient when the block is big and the line is sealed.