Volleyball is a game of speed, precision, and strategy. But how well do you really know the sport?
From Olympic legends to technical rules, this volleyball trivia will put your knowledge to the ultimate test! Whether you’re a player, a fan, or just love a good challenge, this quiz is designed for you.
How this Trivia Works
This quiz contains 90 questions, carefully structured into three levels of difficulty:
🟢 Easy – A warm-up round for casual fans
🔵 Medium – A solid challenge for volleyball enthusiasts
🔴 Hard – Only true volleyball experts will ace this!
Each level is divided into 10-question subtrivias. And if you’re curious about the correct answers, just click the answer button at the end of each set to reveal them!
What’s Inside This Volleyball Quiz?
Expect to tackle questions on: ✅ Volleyball history and major tournaments. ✅ Rules, positions, and strategic plays. ✅ Legendary players and record-breaking performances. ✅ Beach volleyball vs. indoor volleyball. ✅ Fun and surprising facts about the sport.
Why Should You Take This Quiz?
Volleyball is an exciting sport that blends athleticism, teamwork, and skill. Taking this trivia will:
Challenge your volleyball knowledge in a fun way.
Help you learn new facts about this sport’s history and gameplay.
Let you compete with friends to see who’s the real volleyball expert.
Are You Ready to Play?
Easy Volleyball Quiz Questions
1. How many hits are typically allowed per side before the ball must go over the net?
Returning the ball over the net is mandatory within three hits or fewer. Any part of the body is permissible for contacting the ball, provided that an immediate rebound occurs.
2. What is the action of using the forearm to pass the ball to a teammate called?
The forearm pass involves redirecting the ball off a player's forearms to guide it towards a teammate; it is also referred to as a bump.
3. What do you call when a player steps on or crosses the baseline during a serve?
A foot fault occurs when a player, in the act of serving, steps on or crosses the baseline into the court before striking the ball, leading to a service fault.
4. What is the term for a ball that is served into the net?
The term "net serve" may also be used colloquially to describe a serve that hits the net and does not clear it
5. What is the term for a ball that is hit off an opponent's block and goes out of bounds?
When the ball is deflected off an opponent's block and goes out of bounds, this circumstance is referred to as a wipe.
6. How many referees are typically present in a volleyball match?
Typically, volleyball is overseen by a team of two referees and two line judges. The initial referee is situated on an elevated platform at the side of the net, positioned opposite the officials' table.
7. What is the term for a player's illegal action of contacting the net during play?
Players may not touch the net with any part of the body or go over the center line while the ball is in play. This is considered a net fault.
8. How many sets are usually played in a standard volleyball match?
Competitions consist of matches played in a best-of-five sets format. The initial four sets aim for a score of 25 points each, while the concluding set is played to 15 points.
9. What is the term for a player using their open hand to hit the ball over the net?
The action where a player employs an open hand for the third contact, swinging at the ball to propel it over the net, is commonly referred to as a "hit," "attack," or "spike."
10. What does FIVB stand for?
The global regulatory organization for various forms of volleyball is the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (International Volleyball Federation), commonly abbreviated as FIVB.
1. What is the term for a ball that lands outside the boundary lines?
An out-of-bounds ball occurs when it makes contact with any surface, object, or the ground beyond the boundaries of the court.
2. How many points are needed to win a deciding set in volleyball matches?
In order to secure a set victory, a team needs to accumulate 25 points and maintain a lead of at least two points.
3. What is the term for a player's illegal action of lifting or carrying the ball during a hit?
In volleyball, a carry occurs when a player maintains prolonged contact with the ball, regardless of the type of hit, if it lacks a clean, swift execution. Contrary to popular belief, being called for a carry is not exclusive to volleying the ball; it applies across all types of hits.
4. How many players are on the court for each team in FIVB volleyball?
A volleyball team consists of six players on the court, and after winning back service from the opposing team, each player is required to rotate one position clockwise.
5. What is the maximum number of substitutions allowed per team in a FIVB volleyball match?
In both high school and collegiate volleyball, each set permits a total of 15 substitutions.
6. What is the term for a player using their fingertips to direct the ball to a teammate?
A "tip" is the term used when a player uses fingertips with an open hand to delicately send the ball over the net.
7. What is the term for a ball that is served into the net but goes over to the opponent's side?
In volleyball, a let serve takes place when the served ball makes contact with the top of the net in the middle of the court but manages to clear the net and land on the opponent's side of the floor.
8. What is the height of the net in men's FIVB volleyball?
The prescribed regulation height for a volleyball net in men's standard play is 7 feet, 11 ⅝ inches or 2.43 meters.
9. What is the term for a player's illegal action of distracting or obstructing an opponent's view during a serve?
The term "distraction interference" refers to a player's illicit action with the intent of interfering or distracting the opponent while the ball is in play.
10. What is the term used for a serve that results in an immediate point, without the receiving team being able to return the ball?
An "ace" in volleyball describes a situation where a player serves the ball in such a way that the opposing team is unable to pass it effectively. This can happen when the served ball either directly hits the ground or when it is shanked off a passer, preventing any possibility of a second touch. An "ace" is a serve that the opponent is unable to pass, leading to an immediate point.
1. What is the term for a player's illegal action of touching the ball twice consecutively during a hit?
A "double hit" occurs when a player contacts the ball twice consecutively, and it is deemed an illegal hit.
2. What is the height of the net in women's FIVB volleyball?
The net is positioned vertically over the middle of the court, with the top set at 2.43 meters for men and 2.24 meters for women.
3. What is the official ball supplier for FIVB volleyball competitions?
Mikasa Sports, a Japanese sports equipment company, holds the official designation as the game ball supplier for international volleyball and beach volleyball.
4. What is the duration of the intermission between sets in FIVB volleyball?
The intermission between sets lasts for 2 minutes, during which teams are required to switch sides.
5. What is the term for a player's illegal action of stepping on or over the centerline during play?
Centerline violations take place when a player illicitly crosses the central line of the volleyball court.
6. How many points are required to win a fifth set in FIVB volleyball?
According to volleyball rules, matches are best-of-five-set contests. The first four sets conclude when one team reaches 25 points, and in the event of a tie at two sets each after four, the fifth set is played to 15 points.
7. Which city hosted the first-ever FIVB Volleyball World Cup?
The inaugural edition of the FIVB Men's World Championship took place in 1949 and was organized by the global governing body, the FIVB. This tournament was held in Prague, Czechoslovakia, spanning from September 10 to September 18, 1949.
8. Which city hosted the first FIVB Women's Volleyball World Grand Prix?
The 1993 FIVB World Grand Prix marked the inaugural edition of the women's volleyball tournament, an annual event organized by FIVB. This competition featured the participation of eight countries and took place from May 28 to June 30, 1993, with the final round hosted in Hong Kong.
9. What is the term for a ball that goes over the blocker's hands and be close enough to the sideline that the defender can't run it down?
A line shot is executed with the intention of sending the ball over the blocker's hands and positioning it close enough to the sideline that the defender cannot retrieve it.
10. Which player is typically responsible for setting the ball for their teammates to attack?
The setter is the player responsible for the second of three contacts of the ball, employing an "Overhand Pass" to set the ball for a teammate to hit. Typically, the setter takes on the role of directing the team's offensive plays.
Intermediate Volleyball Quiz Questions
1. Which player wears a different colored jersey?
The libero is required to wear a distinctively colored shirt, facilitating easy identification by referees and ensuring proper enforcement of the position-specific rules.
2. What is the libero position in volleyball?
The libero, derived from the Italian word meaning "free," is a player on an indoor volleyball team specializing in defensive skills. The libero is restricted from serving and rotating to the front line during play.
3. What is the rotational order of players on the court in a standard volleyball team?
After scoring a point or prior to commencing a serve, the serving team undergoes a clockwise rotation.
4. What is the difference between a sideout scoring system and a rally scoring system in volleyball?
Under the Rally Point System in volleyball, teams earn a point during every rally, regardless of which team served the ball.
5. What is a dump shot in volleyball and when is it commonly used?
In this context, a player, typically the setter, opts to send the ball over the net on their second hit instead of setting it up for a spike or attack on the third and final hit. A dump shot involves a crafty maneuver where the setter deceives opponents by gently tipping the ball over the net.
6. What is a pancake save in volleyball?
When a player executes a pancake, they press their hand flat against the ground just before the ball makes contact in that precise location. The objective is to maintain the ball in play and prevent it from hitting the ground, thus sustaining the rally.
7. What is a quick set in volleyball?
In volleyball, a quick set denotes a swift and accurate setting maneuver.
8. What is a back row attack in volleyball?
A back-row attack involves a player executing a spike while positioned in the back row.
9. What is a triple block in volleyball?
A triple block is formed when three individuals unite to collectively block an incoming spike.
10. What is a joust in volleyball?
In volleyball, a joust occurs when the ball is descending near the centerline of the net, and both teams have the opportunity to contest and play for it.
1. What is a foot fault in volleyball?
Foot faults typically arise from an inaccurate toss, leading the server to "chase" the toss and inadvertently step on the line. This often results in a serve that is weaker than usual and seldom provides an advantage to the server.
2. What is a pipe attack in volleyball?
The pipe attack involves a high set executed around the 10-foot line, specifically designed for a back-row hitter.
3. What is a tool off the block in volleyball?
The tool is an offensive technique employed to score by deliberately hitting the ball off the block, directing it to an area where defenders are unable to reach.
4. What is a roll shot in volleyball and when is it commonly used?
The roll shot is characterized by a slower yet more precise shot, strategically aiming to exploit specific areas of the court. Typically, this technique is employed to catch the defense off guard with a shorter shot that lands in front of the defenders. However, it can also be utilized to place the ball in the corners of the court or target areas not covered by defenders.
5. What is a roof in volleyball?
Roofing is an interference maneuver in which a defending player or blocker makes contact with a playable ball while it is still positioned on the opposing side of the net.
6. What is a libero substitution?
The libero is permitted to substitute for any player occupying a back-row position exclusively. These substitutions involving the libero are not considered standard substitutions. While these replacements are unrestricted, there must be at least one rally, which may include a playover, between two libero substitutions.
7. How many meters from the net can a libero place the ball?
When positioned in front of the 3-meter line, a libero employs a "bump set."
8. Which player is typically responsible for blocking the opponent's attacks at the net?
The middle blocker, also referred to as the middle hitter, typically holds the title of the tallest player on the volleyball team. Their primary responsibility is to serve as the initial line of defense against the hits from the opposing team.
9. What is the term used for a serve that lands in the opponent's court and is difficult to receive due to its speed and trajectory?
In volleyball, the jump serve is a serving technique where the player enhances power and serve height by executing a jump while striking the ball. The added motion in a jump serve enables the server to impart additional power to the ball, making it challenging for the receiving team to handle.
10. How many points is a team awarded if the opponent touches the net during the rally?
In volleyball, if the opponent touches the net during a rally, the opposing team is awarded a point.
1. How many meters away from the net is the serving line located?
The serving line is situated 9 meters (29 feet 6 inches) away from the net in both indoor and beach volleyball.
2. How many points is a team awarded if the opponent commits a foot fault during the rally?
The team opposing the one committing the fault wins the rally and earns a point. In the event that the serving team wins the rally, it not only scores a point but also retains the serve.
3. Which player is typically responsible for making quick attacks and blocking from the left side of the front row?
The individual positioned on the front left side of the court, responsible for both hitting and blocking, is referred to as an outside hitter, alternatively known as a left side hitter.
4. How many rotational positions are there in a standard volleyball team?
Rotation mandates players to cycle through all six service positions.
5. What is a down ball in volleyball?
When a player is positioned on the ground and utilizes an open-handed swing to send the ball over the net, it's commonly referred to as a "down ball." Conventionally, during a "down ball," blockers are expected to refrain from jumping and remain on the floor when an opponent executes this type of hit.
6. What is a rotational fault in volleyball?
A breach of rotation occurs when the service is executed in a manner inconsistent with the prescribed rotational order.
7. What is a double block in volleyball?
A double block occurs when two players collaborate in synchrony to deflect an incoming attacked ball at the net.
8. What is a cut shot in volleyball?
A cut shot involves executing a highly acute off-speed angle hit. Ideally, the objective is for the ball to land on the opponent's sideline, opposite to the hitter's side, approximately 2-3 feet away from the net.
9. What is a cross-blocking strategy in volleyball?
Employing a cross-blocking strategy entails players adopting a defensive tactic, forming a barrier-like block at the net to counter cross-court attacks.
10. Which player is usually responsible for making the first contact when receiving the opponent's serve?
In volleyball, a "receiver" typically refers to a player who specializes in the skill of receiving serves from the opposing team. They are also called Liberos
Hard Volleyball Quiz Questions
1. What is a back set in volleyball?
A backset transpires when a player orchestrates a set for a teammate positioned behind them, facilitating an offensive opportunity for the attacking player.
2. Which player is responsible for delivering the second contact to set the ball for an attacker in a 5-1 formation?
In a 5-1 volleyball formation, there is a single designated setter who is responsible for delivering the second contact to set the ball for an attacker. The 5-1 formation refers to the team having five hitters (or attackers) and one setter. The setter is a consistent and primary setter throughout the entire rotation, and they set the ball for the hitters from a position near the net.
3. What are the specific criteria for a perfect pass in volleyball?
Achieving a flawless pass involves the receiver maintaining a stable platform and skillfully absorbing the energy of the ball precisely at the point of contact.
4. What are the various types of blocking strategies used in high-level volleyball that are most effective against quick attacks?
Various blocking techniques include man-to-man, zone, perimeter, and rotation blocking.
5. How many challenges are teams allowed per set in FIVB volleyball matches if not correct?
Teams retain the option to initiate another "Challenge" if their assertion is accurate, with the allowance extending up to a maximum of two unsuccessful challenges per set.
6. What is the term used for a serve that spins rapidly in the air, making it difficult to predict its trajectory?
The prevailing competitive serve is the topspin serve, renowned for its effective combination of pace and spin. As suggested by its name, the topspin imparted on the ball results in a rapid descent towards the ground shortly after clearing the net.
7. Which player is typically responsible for executing a quick attack in the middle of the net?
Middle blockers/hitters are athletes specialized in executing rapid attacks positioned in close proximity to the setter.
8. How many technical timeouts are there in a standard FIVB volleyball set?
In each set, teams are granted two strategic timeouts lasting 30 seconds each, exclusively accessible for the team coach to initiate.
9. Which player is responsible for initiating the serve in a FIVB volleyball match?
The term "right-back receiver" specifically refers to a player who is positioned on the right-hand side of the back row when facing the net. This player is responsible for receiving serves and defending against attacks from the opposing team's hitters from the right side of the court. This position is also called 'server' or 'right-back position player'.
10. What is the term used for a defensive play in which a player extends their arm blocking the ball just enough to keep it in play?
In volleyball, a soft block refers to a defensive technique where a player blocks the ball at the net with the intention of deflecting it softly into the opponent's court rather than attempting to forcefully block or redirect it back into the opponent's side with power.
1. Which player is responsible for receiving and passing the opponent's serves and attacks in the backcourt in a 6-2 formation?
The libero is a designated player recognized for their defensive expertise. They are not permitted to serve or rotate to the front line but are tasked with receiving and passing the opponent's serves and attacks in the backcourt, typically within a 6-2 formation.
2. How many players from each team are allowed to jump and block the opponent's attack at the net?
Only the three players positioned at the net are allowed to jump, spike, or block near the net during play.
3. How many consecutive points must a team win by to achieve victory in a FIVB volleyball set?
All sets, a team must achieve victory by a margin of at least two points.
4. Which player is responsible for receiving and passing the opponent's serves and attacks in the backcourt in a 4-2 formation?
In a 4-2 formation, the libero plays a pivotal role by taking charge of receiving and passing the opponent's serves and attacks within the backcourt.
5. What is the term used for a play in which the attacker jumps and hits the ball with a sharp angle?
"Sharp angle" in volleyball typically refers to a type of attack or spike where the ball is hit diagonally across the net at a steep angle, aiming to land it in the opponent's court close to the sideline.
6. Which player is responsible for covering the hitter and being ready to retrieve any blocked or deflected balls in the back row?
The libero's duties extend to covering the hitter and maintaining readiness to retrieve any balls blocked or deflected in the back row. This entails a proactive stance in defense, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the court and swift response to any play disruptions, thereby optimizing the team's defensive strategy.
7. Which player is responsible for executing a "dump" or a quick attack by the setter from the front row?
The setter plays a central role in driving the volleyball team's offensive strategies. A fundamental requirement for a setter is possessing a delicate touch to precisely set the ball for attacking players. Additionally, the setter is tasked with executing quick attacks or "dumps" from the front row, adding versatility and unpredictability to the team's offensive maneuvers.
8. What is the term used for a defensive play in which a player dives and uses their back hand to make a low pass to a teammate?
The "pancake" maneuver in volleyball involves a defensive technique wherein a player extends their hand and slides their palm along the floor while executing a dive or extension roll.
9. Which player is typically responsible for executing an attack from the left side of the net in a 6-2 formation?
The role of the outside hitter, also referred to as the left side player, is pivotal in volleyball. Positioned in the left front, they primarily handle the majority of hitting plays from the outside. Within a 6-2 formation, the outside hitter's main responsibility lies in executing attacks from the left side of the net.
10. Which country has won the most Olympic gold medals in volleyball (men and women) until London 2012?
Soviet Union athletes have accumulated a remarkable total of 7 gold medals (3 for men and 4 for women volley) until London 2012
1. Who holds the record for the highest vertical jump ever recorded in professional volleyball today 2023?
Matey Kaziyski has set a new record in vertical jump, showcasing an extraordinary feat by reaching 390cm in a recent video. Notably, a decade ago, he achieved a height of 379cm. In his youth, Kaziyski diversified his training across various sports, including football, basketball, as well as less conventional disciplines like bow shooting and horse riding.
2. What is the official weight of a volleyball used in Olympic competitions?
The circumference of a volleyball typically ranges from 65 to 67 centimeters (approximately 26 inches), while its weight falls between 260 to 280 grams (around 9.5 ounces).
3. In which year did the FIVB officially adopt the rally scoring system for all international volleyball competitions?
Rally scoring was formally adopted in the sport of volleyball in the year 1999.
4. How many points is a team awarded if the opponent touches the antenna with the ball during the rally?
If the opponent touches the antenna with the ball during the rally, the opposing team earns a point.
5. How many points is a team awarded if the opponent's serve lands out of bounds?
The opposing team earns a point if the opponent's serve lands out of bounds.
6. Which player is usually responsible for executing a "pipe" attack?
Pipe: A back row attack from the middle of the court.
7. How many points is a team awarded if the opponent commits a foot fault while attacking?
The opponent earns a point each time a team commits a fault.
8. How many points is a team awarded if the opponent touches the net with any part of their body during the rally?
In volleyball, when a player makes contact with the net during play, it constitutes a "net violation." Such an infraction is deemed a fault, leading to a point being awarded to the opposing team.
9. How many players from each team are typically positioned in the front row during a FIVB volleyball match?
In basic volleyball, there are three players positioned in the front row. As the game progresses, each player rotates to the next position in a clockwise manner with each new serve or side-out.
10. How many players from each team are typically positioned in the back row during a FIVB volleyball match?
In fundamental volleyball, the court is divided into two zones: front row and back row, with three players positioned in each zone. As the game progresses, players rotate clockwise through their respective positions with each new serve.
FAQs
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