There are not much sports that start with V but there is this one popular team sport that is played worldwide, in different settings outdoor. Can you guess what it is? Yes, volleyball – a team sport that became a popular ball sport in 1900s! In this blog, we will discuss when volleyball was originated, how it is played and the different types of volleyball games that exists out there.
Table of Contents for the sport that starts with v
Origins of Volleyball
Volleyball is said to be invented by William G. Morgan in 1895, initially known as Mintonette which was played as an indoor game. It soon evolved as a popular, outdoor ball sport with the establishment of the rules for the game in 1900s.
Rules for the Game of Volleyball
Two teams with 6 players each compete in a court that is divided by the net. The rules of a typical game of volleyball are as mentioned below:
- The players of each team are allowed three consecutive touches with the ball, in order to return the ball to the other side.
- A total of 6 players per team are allowed where 3 players stand in the front row while the remaining 3 stand at the back.
- A point is given when the ball lands in the opponent’s side – within the court’s boundaries.
- The ball must only be passed over the net.
The winner is the first team that gains 25 points with a two-point margin.
Beach Volleyball
An adaptation of the volleyball, Beach volleyball was invented 1915 at a Hawaiian beach. This quickly gained fame as a recreational sport and popularly played at sandy beaches as an inexpensive activity. However, the Olympic featured two-player sport was first played in 1920 in California for public enjoyment.
Rules for the game of Beach Volleyball
The competitive game of beach volleyball has similar rules to the game of volleyball. Although there are some differences such as the number of players – beach volleyball is played in teams with two players each, in a sand court.
The use of hands and arms are allowed only. The winning team is determined by the best of three sets –21 points are to be scored in the first two sets with a two-point margin and if required, the third set, with up to 15 points.
Both the types of volleyball are a part of Olympic games, world championships and local matches in different countries around the world. Volleyball is a great pastime activity and also an exciting competitive sport!
Author’s Opinion
Volleyball is a healthy and fun hobby to adopt. It is a team sport that is a great way to bond with new people or spend some quality time with friends and family members – whether it is in a court or at a beach. I have always enjoyed playing volleyball; I first learned playing this sport back in my university days. It is also an interesting sport to watch due to the lighthearted yet competitive nature of the game!
COMMON FAQs regarding Volleyball
Q. How many players are in a volleyball game?
There are two teams with 6 players in each team.
Q. Is beach volleyball same as volleyball?
The rules are similar with a few major differences such as, it is played competitively in a sand court or causally at a beach with two players against two players.
Q. Where was Volleyball originated from?
Volleyball was invented in a college in Massachusetts, US.
Q. Is volleyball a part of Olympics?
Yes, volleyball and beach volleyball are both separate sports featured in the Olympics.
