TRANSITIONING COURT PLAYERS TO THE SAND GAME (AVCA-ULMER)

Learn the fundamental techniques needed for playing on the sand and in the elements Run drills that adjust techniques for setting and tipping based on the rule differences between court and sand volleyball Develop reading skills to help determine when to block and when to pull Run game game-like drills for the sand game that ensure a skills transfer to actual play

Although sand volleyball and indoor volleyball come from the same sport, they are different enough to frustrate even the most skilled player. Making a smooth transition from the court to sand requires knowing what parts of the game to focus on in order to improve quickly.

In this dynamic presentation, Matt Ulmer uses individual and team drills to demonstrate how he trained the players in the indoor program at Long Beach State to win at the highest levels of collegiate sand volleyball.

Starting with warm-up drills, Coach Ulmer covers the differences in indoor and outdoor techniques. He explains why the techniques for the sand game are different and shares tips to get your athletes to implement changes in their game. You'll learn outdoor serving strategies that make running an effective offense difficult on your opponents. You'll see how to build a sand defense around blocking strategies that adjust to the opponent's offensive options.

The presentation includes a demonstration of team drills that allow athletes to use the individual skills they've worked on in game-like play. Train your players to communicate effectively to ensure that the team is coordinated in every facet of the game. Throughout the presentation, Ulmer constantly mixes drills and technique with discussions about strategy, which is a significant part of a successful sand game.

The video closes with a Q&A session on team composition, defensive positioning and Coach Ulmer's experience in learning the sand game.

Produced at the 2013 AVCA Annual Convention in Seattle, WA.

48 minutes. 2014.