Players work in pairs and stand across the court from each other. One player starts with the ball and overhand passes the ball high in the air and then claps their hands over the head and behind their back before the ball comes down.
Once the ball comes back down, the players sets it to their partner, who does the same thing.
By clapping, players have shorter time to prepare for the next pass, just like they will at times in a match. This way they improve their reaction times.
You may ask players to clap more times or even turn around while clapping if the drill becomes too easy.
Most teams win the dig and then hand the point straight back with a slow, predictable transition swing. The best 2026 sides treat the moment after the dig as their sharpest scoring chance, feeding the middle in transition and running first-tempo attacks off a defensive ball.
When the first pass breaks down, most teams collapse into a high ball straight into the opposing block. The best 2026 sides are building structured out-of-system offences that turn broken plays into scoring chances using libero sets, left-side options and disciplined hitter routes.
The modern pipe attack has evolved from a high middle-back set into a flat, fast weapon that arrives at quick tempo. Coaches at every level are now drilling it as a primary scoring option, forcing blockers into impossible decisions and unlocking four-hitter offences.
Register for FREE and get coaching tips, top drills, session and more every week!
