A dig is a defensive bump on a hard incoming ball. The platform is the same as the pass, but the timing is faster and the ball is harder. Coach toss is the bridge between drills and live attacks.
What you need: A volleyball, two players (coach + defender), a setter target.
Setup: Defender in low defensive stance in the back court. Coach 15 feet away with a ball. Setter target 8 feet from the net.
How to run it:
- Cue: Ready, Platform, Angle, Push.
- Coach throws the ball hard at the defender’s chest, hips, or feet.
- Defender stays low, gets behind the ball, forms the platform.
- Digs the ball up high (10-15 feet) toward the setter target.
- Do 10 reps mixing locations.
What to watch: Height of the dig. A flat dig that goes back over the net is wasted. Dig high enough that a setter can play it.
If they’re struggling: Slower throws. Closer distance.
If they’ve got it: Add real attacks (a hitter on the other side spiking).