The jump set can be an effective tool to hold blockers and create openings for your hitters. In addition the jump set can provide attacking opportunities for your setter, giving your team a more versatile offense.
The video clip below was presented by The Art of Coaching Volleyball as the AVCA Tip of the Week. In the clip Stanford’s John Dunning breaks down Lauren Carlini’s (former Wisconsin setter) jump set. In the video it is easy to see the key components of the jump set. The clip would be an excellent teaching tool for your players and or assistant coaches. Coach Dunning breaks down both the front and back jump set as well as the fundamentals of the setter attack.
For more great volleyball coaching tools you can click on the links above or for more videos like this you can visit The Art of Coaching Volleyball YouTube Channel or the AVCA YouTube Channel
The YouTube video below has sound so please make sure that your sound is turned on and that you have access to the site (some schools block access to YouTube)
To execute the Jump Set the setter must assume a starting position that has her back to the net and facing the passer. Her first step will be with the left foot to take her towards the ball. Some setters will follow with a step with their right foot, while others simple step with their left the give a small hop and land on both feet. Either method is acceptable for the jump set, it’s simply a matter of individual preference.
The hips must be squared away to the target and arms fully extended above the head out towards where she wants the ball to go. All body movement should be towards the target.
When using the jump set to back set, the mechanics are the same, the setter simply delivers the ball behind her. It is important that she gets her hips square, if she leaves them open the set will likely be to close to the net.
In terms of attacking with the jump set, the setter should always go up with two hands to simulate the set. She will let the ball cross her body and attack it with her outside hand or inside hand depending on where she wants the ball to go. Contact should be made when the ball is above the inside shoulder.