Underhand Serve
A low contact under the waist, hand or closed fist, usually a pendulum path. It is legal in FIVB, NCAA, and high school, and it is the first serve most kids learn because it is consistent. The trade is easy pass: you are handing the other team a 3 pass unless you are placing short zones with purpose.
Example
Little arc, big safety, the ball is in, the pass is perfect, coach wants more pace next week.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you do an underhand serve in volleyball?
Toss to your hitting shoulder line, step with the opposite foot, swing from low to high, contact under center. Keep the motion tight so you are not slapping a lift.
Is the underhand serve used in competitive volleyball?
Rare in DI and pro because it is easy to pass. It still shows in youth and in smart spot serves when a soft ball buys you an angle you want.