Olympic Volleyball??

Question

I was watching woman's volleyball on the Olympics today and i noticed that the shortest player on both teams has a different color uniform... is this how its supposed to be, and why and why do they do that?

Answer 1

The person in the different colored jersey is the libero, or d.s. (defensive specialist). They only play back row, and they don't count as a substitution against the team. That's why she's wearing a different color, so the refs know which one she is. This person is the best passer/digger on the team. She is usually the shortest player because usually taller people are hitters, and she doesn't have to go as far to get. She can also serve but only for one person per set. This isn't all about them, but I hope this helps you understand.

Answer 2

It doesnt have to be the shortest player, it has to do with their defense abilities.

It's a position called libero. The libero is a designated back-row player and generally the most skilled defensive player on the team. The libero plays a special roll in team defense and passing. The libero is the player on the volleyball team that can come into the game and replace any player on the back row. The libero is sometimes called a defensive specialist or DS.

The libero may be put in the game to pass for a weaker passer or to help cover the court by making great defensive plays. The libero may also serve in one rotation.

The color of the libero's uniform must contrast from the color of their teammates uniforms, and the shorts must be the same as their teammates.

Answer 3

ive always wondered about the same thing