More touches, more thinking, more feedback—and way less standing around. Not all practices are created equal. Some are packed with intensity, learning, and joy. Others? Mostly cones, chaos, and kids waiting their turn. If you want to know whether a team is getting better—not just busier—watch how they practice. Here's what separates a great volleyball practice from a mediocre one.
1. Lots of Ball Touches (and Movement)
The #1 hallmark of a great practice is how often players touch the ball.
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No long lines.
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No standing and watching.
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No coaches lecturing for 10 minutes straight.
Every player should be moving, reacting, passing, hitting, or serving constantly. Even when players aren't in the main drill, they should be shadowing movements, tossing balls, or observing with intention.
Great practices feel fast—not rushed, but alive.
2. Game-Like Reps
The drills that matter most replicate the game:
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Pressure.
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Decision-making.
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Unpredictable outcomes.
Forget perfect reps with no defenders. Real improvement happens when athletes are forced to read, adapt, and compete. That means fewer isolated drills and more 2v2, 3v3, or small-sided scenarios that mimic game conditions.
A controlled mess builds better athletes than a tidy line.
3. Feedback That's Specific and Timely
The best coaches don't just cheer—they teach. In great practices, you'll hear:
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"Keep your feet before your hands—reset faster."
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"Good job adjusting to that off-set."
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"Try calling for that earlier next time."
Coaches give just enough input to make athletes better—without micromanaging every move. They coach the intent, not just the outcome.
4. Controlled Chaos, Not Constant Perfection
Mistakes aren't avoided—they're expected.
If every drill is clean and every pass perfect, the athletes probably aren't being challenged enough. In great practices, players are:
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Trying new skills
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Learning to adjust mid-play
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Working through fatigue or stress
Growth looks messy. And that's a good thing.
5. Energy, Focus, and Ownership
Finally, great practices feel different. You'll see:
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Athletes taking ownership of warm-ups and cool-downs
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Teammates giving feedback and encouragement
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Focus during drills, followed by quick transitions
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Energy that doesn't just come from the coach, but from the players themselves
Great coaches build this culture. Great athletes sustain it.