Learn about Smashball through some frequently asked questions!

Yes! Smashball teaches core concepts of volleyball - sending the ball over the net, teamwork, spacing, and rallying - using rules that are appropriate for younger players. It is a developmental starting point, not a different sport.

Catching allows young athletes to:

• Control the ball

• Look up to find teammates

• Make intentional plays

This builds confidence and game understanding first. As players progress, catching is gradually removed and replaced with forearm passing and overhead contacts.

Players are introduced to all volleyball skills during Smashball:

• Hitting approach

• Throwing technique

• Overhand serving

• Forearm passing

• Overhead setting

Smashball allows players to practice these skills successfully, rather than struggle with them too early.

No! Players who start in Smashball typically:

• Touch the ball more

• Learn faster

• Understand the game better

• Transition more smoothly to 6v6

Smashball helps players build a stronger foundation for long-term success.

Smashball games are competitive in a positive, age-appropriate way. The focus is on:

• Sustaining rallies

• Making good plays

• Learning from mistakes

• Movement

• Transitioning to hit the ball

• Teamwork

Development is emphasized over winning.

Smashball uses:

• Lighter volleyballs (VolleyLite)

• Lower nets (5')

• Smaller courts (pickleball courts)

• *Pickleball courts are identical to volleyball courts, just smaller*

This helps players be successful and confident while learning proper technique.

• Smashball is essentially "volleyball for beginners," but structured so athletes get more touches, more rallies, more success, and more fun!

• Regular volleyball emphasizes competition, strategy, skill specialization, and winning, which can overwhelm young players.

• Smashball acts as a bridge, gradually building the skills needed for full 6v6 volleyball without discouraging new players.