Official School Rules for Volleyball

Volleyball is a sport that can be played at any level. Teams can vary in size from two to six players. The rules are fundamentally the same at any level, but there are some differences between the USA Volleyball Domestic Competition Rules, NCAA rules, and National High School Volleyball Rules. The elements that have differ are: the qualifications for the playing surface, playing restrictions, center line specifications, attack line extensions, media location, overhead clearance, ceiling and obstructions as well as the service zone.

  1. Scoring System

    • A volleyball match is won by the team that wins two out of three sets. A set, or game, is won by the first team to score 25 points,which must also have a two points lead. Points are scored when the ball is not successfully returned by the opposing team.

    The Serve

    • The server position is in the right back position. When serving the ball, a player gets one toss and must release the ball when serving. The serve must be executed behind the baseline of the court. If the server crosses over before serving, it is considered to be a foot fault. The server must wait until the whistle is blown by the referee and then must complete the serve within division regulated time.

    Rules of Play

    • There are basic rules of play for volleyball. A team is limited to three hits on one side. The server position is in the right back corner. Only the front row of the team is allowed to attack (spike) the ball and you can not return a serve with a spike. A team earns the right to serve by winning the point. A side out happens when a team wins back position of the ball. When a team wins back possession of the ball then they must rotate clockwise, each player one position.