Balloon Volleyball Rules

Children interested in playing volleyball can play an indoor version of the game using a balloon or a cloth-covered ball.



This game requires fewer players than the six per side on a regulation indoor volleyball team. It's OK to bend the rules. The whole point of the game is to get children accustomed to the motions of volleyball and to have fun.

  1. Who's On the Team?

    • Youth volleyball can be played with one to four players on a side. Coaches can substitute as often as they like if more than eight children want to play in the game.

    How Large Is the Court?

    • A standard volleyball court should be divided in half. Organizers can also use a racquetball or tennis court or any other flat playing surface. The court boundaries should be clearly marked, and the court should be divided in half by a net.

      The net can be at any height appropriate for the age of the children playing. Ideally, it should be at least five feet high.

      If you're running multiple games on one court, you should leave about six feet between each court, so players don't interfere with other games going on next to them.

    What Equipment Do You Need?

    • All you need is a net and a ball.

      A "light" version of an adult volleyball is manufactured for children's games. But you can also use a balloon or a ball covered in cloth.

      The net can be made of any material. If a net is unavailable, use a piece of string in its place.

    Rules of Play

    • Games are played to a combined 25 points. A team must win by at least two points.

      One side starts play by serving the ball. Any style of serve is allowed.

      The side receiving the serve can hit the ball up to three times to get it over the net to the opposing team. Any style of hitting, using any part of the body, is allowed. The ball cannot touch the ground.

      When the ball is delivered to the other side, it must stay in bounds. If the ball touches any part of the lines, it is considered in bounds.

      If a side is unable to get the ball over the net within three hits or hits the ball out of bounds, the opposing team gets a point and the next serve.

      Referees can also award points to the opposing side if one team displays poor sportsmanship.

      Have fun. That's the overall goal.