Sapporo (Japan)

Today I’ll focus on the difference between digging and covering, trying to clarify this confusing rally phases.

A lot of Volleyball fans misunderstand the two actions because there is a slight distinction.


Lets start considering what we mean with “defense”.


The difense, which could be called “dig” as well, is the first touch on the opposite attack.

Let’s make an example: in case of spike from the right side of the net (see spiker in the picture), four athletes (the three back row players and the one in front line not involved in blocking) have to place themselves in the right positions to dig the spike.

Usually player n.1 defends the line, other two (4) are concerned with sharp  and (5) long angle and the last one (6) stays in the middle to dig all the balls passing over or through the block.

Players n.2 and n.3 should stay close the net to block the opponent’s hit.




Lets now focus on the “cover”.


The cover is the players’ movement to assist their own spiker (4) which is ready to attack.
After passing and setting, the five players, not involved in attacking, move closer to their spiker to cover him.

Covering, means being ready to keep the ball up in case of rebounds over the opponent block. The five players (spiker excluded) have to share the whole uncovered area.
Players n. 3 and n.5 are in charge of short and quick rebounds. Players n.2 and n.6 have to take care of the slower and longer bounces.
Player n.1 has to follow the long and less frequent balls.






Improving defense skills is difficult because of the ball speed and the strong physical effort. However, practising the dig could be very satisfying if the players start succeeding to keep the ball in play.

Improving the cover, instead, is extremely complicated because it is impossible to foresee the opponents block rebound and you never know if and when you will be involved. The athletes have to be patient and keep on doing their best even if they don’t get the ball for long time.

Covering is a very humble fundamental. Fans and reporters hardly appreciate the perseverance and application necessary to well perform in covering, although often the winning point depends on a simple cover.

When you watch a match and you see all the players well disposed to cover, you can be sure that that team has excellent winning chances.

Bye bye andrea zorzi