Platform Grip

Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to demonstrate the correct hand and arm position for the platform grip.
Students will be able to execute a forearm pass with a stable platform.
Students will understand the importance of the platform grip in controlling the ball.

Description Of Activity

.1. Introduction (5 minutes)
Engage: Begin by asking students if they have ever played volleyball or seen it played. Ask them what they noticed about how players hit the ball.

Explain: Introduce the forearm pass (or "bump") and its importance in volleyball for receiving serves, playing hard-driven balls, and setting up the setter.

Key Concept: Introduce the term "platform" and explain that it refers to the flat surface created with the forearms, which is essential for a controlled pass.

2. Instruction and Demonstration (15 minutes)
Demonstrate: The instructor demonstrates the correct platform grip, emphasizing the following:
Straight arms, elbows locked (not hyper-extended)
Hands together (various methods: clasped, fist grip, cupped)
Flat forearms as the contact surface
Arms moving as a single unit
Slight forward angle of the platform

Explanation: Explain why each element is important:
Straight arms: create a consistent angle
Hands together: provide stability
Flat forearms: maximize contact area
Arms as one: ensure accuracy

Age-Appropriate Cues:
Grades 3-5: "Make your arms like a table," "Thumbs together," "Use your legs!"
Grades 6-8: "Stable platform," "Elbows locked," "Control with your legs and core."
Grades 9-12: "Consistent angle," "Minimize arm swing," "Direct the ball to the target."

3. Practice Drills
Drill 1: Platform Formation (10 minutes)
Description: Students work individually, focusing solely on forming the correct platform.

Procedure:
Students stand in place, arms extended in front.
They practice forming the platform grip using the chosen hand position.
Instructor circulates, providing feedback and correcting errors.

Drill 2: Wall Passing (10 minutes)
Description: Students practice passing against a wall, focusing on platform stability and ball control.

Procedure:
Students stand a few feet from a wall.
They toss the ball gently to themselves and pass it against the wall, aiming for a consistent spot.
Instructor observes and corrects platform errors, arm movement, and body position.

Variations

.Students can check their form in a mirror.
Students can hold a ruler or other straight object against their forearms to ensure flatness.

Mark a target on the wall for students to aim at.
Increase the distance from the wall as students improve.
 

Coaching Tips

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Equipment/Material Required

.Volleyballs (one per pair or small group)
Cones or markers
Net (if available, but not required for initial drills)
Wall space

Optional:
Soft volleyballs or beach balls for younger students
Targets (e.g., hoops, mats)
Video demonstration of forearm passing