Positioning for successful digs in volleyball
There are several aspects to a game of volleyball that work in sync for a team to win a match. It is important that all the areas of volleyball are functioning at the optimum otherwise the opposing team finds a weak spot and uses it to generate points. The
basic areas in a game of volleyball include defence and attack however; these two aspects are further divided into many specialized fields.
In a volleyball team, a person will find all the six players making use of some fundamental skills whereas some players would stand out because they perform a certain specific action. This is because often in a team of volleyball some roles are defined.
These roles include that of a libero, setter and spiker etcetera. However, there are some tasks that all players are expected to perform such as pass the ball or make a dig.
Despite the fact that the skill of digging can be included in the defensive side of volleyball, it is something that every player should master as it is crucial in saving points. The term dig is used to define the action of a volleyball player that is used
to stop a hard driven ball which is coming from the opposing team in the form of a serve or a spike. However, a dig is difficult to execute as it involves quick reaction from a volleyball player as the ball is often fast and difficult to reach. Therefore,
volleyball players should practice techniques to improve their dig so that they can save points.
As with anything else, a dig cannot be mastered without repeated and hard training. The following quote by an anonymous person explains the importance of training in making wins, "Extra discipline makes up for a lack of talent and a lack of discipline quickly
siphons away extra talent, that's why it's frequently the most disciplined rather than the most gifted rise to the top."
The first thing to keep in mind about executing a dig is the starting position. If the volleyball player positions himself or herself in such a way that the reaction is faster, it increases the chances of making a successful dig. The best position to adopt
is to stand on the toes of the feet rather than the heels. Not only that, the feet should be wide apart with the knees bent in such a way that they are extending over the toes. The upper body should be lowered so that the shoulders are moved forwards whereas
the arms should also be bent and placed in front.
When the ball comes towards the player, he or she should make an effort to make the contact with it between the knees and in front of the body. If a player is able to determine beforehand where the ball will be headed it will improve the chances of making
a successful dig. While making the dig, a player should try to place the forearms underneath the ball. In this way, the ball will be provided with a stable platform and will not bounce back at an uncontrolled angle.
If a volleyball team perfects the ability to make digs in such a way that each one of the six players is able to perform it well, it will be made increasingly hard for the opposite team to score any points and they will most likely end up making errors in
frustration of not generating points.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article do not represent Bettor.com’s editorial policy.
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