Shank
A pass that misses so badly that no teammate can play it. Into the stands, into the net, or off the court. It usually comes from late feet, a platform that is angled the wrong way, or contact on the edge of the arm. On a serve, the scorekeeper records a reception error, and the server gets an ace.
Example
A jump serve drops late. The passer turns her platform sideways, and the ball flies into the third row of chairs. The coach calls timeout. The server has an ace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a shank in volleyball?
A pass that goes so far off target that nobody on your team can play it. A pass that is a few feet off the setter is a bad pass. A shank ends the rally or forces a desperate save.
How do you stop shanking in volleyball?
Get your body behind the ball, put your platform out early, and stop swinging your arms at the last second. Contact on the edge of your forearm is what sends the ball sideways.