Serve
The opening contact of every rally, struck from behind the end line. It is the one skill entirely in your control—no teammate can help. Types include float serves, jump topspin serves, standing topspin serves, and underhand serves. All are legal under FIVB, NCAA, and high school rules as long as the server stays behind the line at contact.
Example
The server lines up in the middle, tosses, strikes with a clean hand, the ball wanders, drops in one, and the up ref awards the ace before anyone moves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the types of serves in volleyball?
Float, standing topspin, jump float, and jump topspin are what you will see in college. Underhand is legal everywhere but you almost never see it at level because the ball gets passed on a 3-pass all night.
Where should you stand when serving in volleyball?
Anywhere on the end line, inside the two imaginary extensions, until the moment you make contact. Jump servers often back up; float servers like the middle. No foot on the line before the hit, or you are handing away a point.