Pool Volleyball

Pool volleyball is an exciting and engaging game that brings the thrill and energy of volleyball into the water.

The game is perfect for hot summer days and provides a great way to combine physical activity with refreshing fun in the pool.

Accessories or Set-Up Needed

Just like volleyball on a court, playing in the pool will require a volleyball and a net. The net can either be a floating volleyball net or a portable net that is suitable for pool use.

It is standard to play in the shallow end of the pool to allow players to stand and jump better.

How To Play Volleyball in a Pool

Two teams compete to score points by hitting the ball over a net and into the opponent’s side of the pool without letting it touch the water.

The game combines swimming, teamwork, and strategy as players navigate the pool to keep the ball in play.

Basic Gameplay

Volleyball in the water can be as similar or different from volleyball on a court as necessary.

As a starting point, games are typically a best-of-5 set series with each set played to 25 points. So as a first step, determine the number of sets and points required to win a set. Points can really go as high or low as you want.

Getting a point can be determined in two different ways:

• First, points are given to only the team who served. For example, if the serving team wins that serve, they get a point. On the other hand, if the serving team loses the serve, then the other team gets the ball to serve but no point is given.
• Second, a point is given for any service, regardless of which team served. This makes games go much faster and is the recommended point system.

Also, agree on the allowed number of hits per side before the ball must go over the net. This is normally 3 hits, but it can be as much or as little as you want. Understanding this is more for fun, increase the hit limit to 5!

Lastly, establish any specific rules beforehand around serving, blocking, or hitting the net while playing.

Playing Pool Volleyball

Split players into two equal teams. To make it fairer, ensure the teams are split equally among skill level and volleyball experience.

• Position the teams on opposite sides of the net.
• Start the game with a serve, and continue to play as teams volley the ball back and forth across the net.
• The team who wins that point will get to serve next.
• Servers will rotate only after taking back the serve from the other team
• Sets are over after a team reaches 25 points. Matches are over after a team wins 3 sets.

Rules to Follow

• If the ball bounces out of the designated playing area or outside of the pool, the team who hit it loses a point.
• Players cannot touch the net during play.
• Players cannot hit the ball more than one time consecutively.
• The ball must be hit over the net, not thrown or carried over.
• Follow the maximum number of hits per side. If using 5 hits as an example, the ball must go over after the 5th hit. The ball can go over any amount of hits before 5 is reached

Strategy

Volleyball is the ultimate team game where communication with teammates is important. Talk to your team about hit placement and positioning before a point.

Also, aim for open areas on the opponent’s side to make it harder for them to return the ball. Remember, playing in water makes it a lot tougher to move around and be agile!

Variations When Playing

As mentioned above, pool volleyball can be played up to as many sets and points as needed. To add some more intrigue to the game, incorporate the following fun elements:

• Beach Ball Volleyball: Play with a larger ball or inflatable beach ball for added fun!
• Keep it Traditional: Introduce a “rotation” rule, where players must rotate positions after each point. This ensures players are in every position when playing
• Pool Noodle Volleyball: Designate one player on each team that uses pool noodles instead of their hands. To make it more interesting, the player with the pool noodle must touch the ball before it goes over!

Safety Precautions

• Make sure the game is played in the shallow end of the pool. This makes it more fun and less tiring for the players.
• Use a softer or water-friendly ball to avoid injury. No basketballs or soccer balls.

Bump, Set, Spike, Splash!

Pool volleyball is a fun twist that combines the action of volleyball with the fun of swimming.

With some simple accessories, players of all ages can enjoy some friendly competition while enjoying the pool!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can certainly use a regular volleyball when playing in the pool. A lot of volleyballs are actually designed to go into the pool as well. If you want to be sure, read the manufacturer guidelines on your particular ball.

While there is no specific requirement, a volleyball net’s height largely depends on the type of net you have. Typically, the bottom of the net will be just above the edge of the pool’s coping. Water volleyball nets range from 2.5 to  3 feet high. In a pool with a depth of 3.5 to 4 feet this would give the net an in-water height of 6 to 7 feet.