Why Flexibility Across Positions Is the New Competitive Advantage
In today’s fast-evolving game, volleyball is no longer a sport where athletes can afford to master just one role. Coaches at all levels — from club to collegiate — are prioritizing positional versatility more than ever.
It’s not about being average at everything. It’s about becoming valuable across the board.
An athlete who can step in as a backup setter, hold their own in serve receive, or defend the back row when rotations shift becomes more than just a player — they become a problem-solver.
Why Versatility Matters Now More Than Ever
At every level — club, high school, college, national teams — coaches are looking for players who can adapt.
Here’s why versatility is rising:
– Injuries happen. Teams need backups who aren’t just filling a jersey — they need players who can actually perform.
– Tactical adjustments matter. Coaches may change systems mid-season or even mid-game — players who can adjust fast are incredibly valuable.
– Smaller rosters, bigger roles. Travel squads and tournament teams often bring fewer players. Versatile athletes get more playing time.
– Recruiters notice. Coaches aren’t just looking for height or raw power anymore — they look for game IQ, flexibility, and coachability.
Being stuck in only one role? It’s a liability, not an advantage.
Skills Every Volleyball Player Should Develop (No Matter Their Main Position)
You don’t have to master every skill — but you need to be functional across the board.
Smart players are working on:
– Serving under pressure (float, jump float, or jump serve)
– Passing with control (platform precision)
– Defending seams and tips
– Setting out-of-system balls
– Reading hitters and anticipating plays
– Transition footwork for offense and defense
The players who think fast — and fill gaps fast — are the ones who stay on the court longest.
How to Train Positional Versatility (Without Losing Your Primary Focus)
1. Get reps in unfamiliar roles: Spend some practice time passing if you’re a hitter. Dig if you’re a middle. Set if you’re a libero.
2. Ask questions: When watching other players, ask yourself, ‘If I had to step into their spot right now, what would I need to do?’
3. Train decision-making, not just drills: Small-sided games (2v2, 3v3) force everyone to touch the ball, cover more space, and think quicker.
4. Stay humble: Versatility requires being coachable, uncomfortable, and willing to look ‘bad’ sometimes. That’s part of growth.
The Bigger Picture
Volleyball is a fast, fluid, constantly adapting game.
The players who survive — and thrive — at higher levels aren’t just specialists. They’re athletes who understand movement, spacing, pressure, and team needs beyond their comfort zone.
Positional versatility isn’t extra work. It’s career insurance.
Learn more. Train more. Play more.
Because volleyball will always reward the players who can do it all — even when it’s not their turn.
Coach Luc Tremblay is the Founder and Head Coach of Volleyball Winnipeg & Volleyball Calgary.
Luc has been coaching for over 30 years across all age levels and abilities. He leads the VISION coach development program and designed many of the training methods used in our programs. click here.