Mud Volleyball Rules

Mud volleyball rules vary slightly by the tournament host, but all center on a standard set of rules and guidelines. Mud volleyball games are often co-ed games, which feature either four or six players on the mud court at the same time. Some tournament hosts require a minimum number of females on the mud court during co-ed games.

  1. Mud Volleyball Games and Tournaments

    • Mud volleyball tournaments are organized to play either the best two out of three matches, or the best of five matches. Both types of game schedules are common, and vary depending upon the number of teams in the tournament.

    Games and Scoring

    • Games are routinely played to 15 points; games must be won by a two-point lead. The game continues until one team has a score of at least two points ahead, unless the tournament host puts a cap on the score. When a cap on the score is established, the winning team is determined by the final score, and negates the two point lead requirement.

    Officiating Mud Volleyball Games

    • At least one referee is scheduled per game. In most cases, the losing team from the prior match must serve as the "down ref" score keeper, and line judges. The standing referee, also known as the "up ref," must have a whistle to use during the competition.

    Service and Net Play

    • Serving rules also vary by tournament host. Many mud volleyball tournaments allow only underhand serving, and require the server to shout out the score putting the ball into play. Crossing under the net is permitted unless it interferes with the opposing team's efforts to hit the ball.

    Attacking the Volleyball

    • Players are not allowed to spike or block the serve, but can attack the ball during volleys. Open hand hits are allowed, as long as the ball is not caught, held, or thrown by the player. Some tournaments allow barefoot play, but others require shoes be worn and secured to the player's socks with duct tape for safety.