Volleyball Rules: Referee Signals

When it comes to volleyball, timeouts are an essential part of the game. Whether your team is looking to regroup, strategize, or make some last-minute adjustments, timeouts provide a crucial opportunity to do so. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the basic rules surrounding timeouts in volleyball.

Understanding Timeouts

In volleyball, each team is allowed two timeouts per set. These timeouts give teams a chance to rest and recharge before returning to play. While it may seem like a simple concept, there are some key rules to keep in mind when calling timeouts.

Who Can Call a Timeout?

Only the head coach or a player can call a timeout. This means that substitutes and other team members cannot call timeouts on their own.

When Can a Timeout Be Called?

Timeouts can only be called when the ball is not in play. This means that if the ball is still in play, you'll need to wait until it's out of bounds before calling a timeout.

How Long Do Timeouts Last?

In international and FIVB tournaments, timeouts last for 60 seconds. However, teams can come onto the court early if they're ready to resume play. In NCAA volleyball games, the time limit is slightly longer, at 75 seconds. USAV and FIVB rules state that each team is allowed two timeouts per set of 30 seconds.

What Happens After a Timeout?

Once a timeout has been called, play will stop, and all players must remain in their current positions on the court. The team that called the timeout will lose one of their remaining timeouts for the rest of the set. Coaches can step onto the court during a timeout to talk to their players, but they must stay off the court once play resumes.

Why Do Teams Call Timeouts?

Timeouts are usually called to allow players a break, discuss strategy with teammates, or make substitutions. They may also be used to slow down the game's pace and give the team a chance to regroup.

In volleyball, timeouts are an essential part of the game. By understanding the basic rules surrounding timeouts, teams can use this valuable tool to their advantage. Whether you're a coach looking to strategize or a player seeking to recharge, timeouts provide a crucial opportunity to do so. Remember, only the head coach or a player can call a timeout, and it must be called when the ball is not in play. With these rules in mind, your team will be better equipped to make the most of their timeouts and come out on top.

Volleyball rules referee signals