Players work in pairs with a ball between them. The player starting with the ball spikes it to their partner who needs to get down and did the ball back to the spiker, who should easily be able to catch it. The receiving is trying to pass as accurately as possible.
This drill is similar to a match situation in that the receiver has to react to prepare and the dig the ball directly back to the spiker.
Ensure the player spiking keeps changing the ball velocity and direction to make the drill more of a challenge for the digger.
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!
