Why Communication Is the Most Underrated Skill in Volleyball
The silent ingredient that transforms good teams into great ones
By Ovanto.org Team
This article is in sync with our mission to contribute to the development of health culture and the growth of all disciplines of volleyball. We provide informative and educational content about volleyball training and the benefits of playing the sport.
Introduction: Great Teams Talk
Volleyball is fast, explosive, and unpredictable — which is exactly why communication matters more than most players realize.
You can have powerful hitters, solid passers, and great setters… but if nobody talks, the team will always struggle.
Communication is the glue that holds everything together.
It prevents collisions, improves decision-making, boosts confidence, and keeps the entire team connected during every point.
And yet, despite being so important, it is often the most underrated skill on the court.
Let’s look at why communication is the secret force behind winning volleyball.
1. Communication Creates Clarity — Confusion Creates Errors
Most mistakes in youth volleyball come from silence:
Two players running for the same ball
Nobody stepping in to take the free ball
Missed coverages
Players freezing because they are unsure who’s got it
These aren’t skill problems — they’re communication problems.
How to Fix It:
Use simple, clear calls that everyone understands:
“Mine!”
“Out!”
“Help!”
“Short!”
“Cover!”
The more you talk, the more confident your actions become.
2. Talking Builds Trust Between Teammates
A team that communicates well is a team that trusts each other.
Why? Because talking on the court shows confidence, awareness, and willingness to take responsibility.
When players call the ball loudly and clearly:
Teammates relax
Movement becomes natural
Everyone plays with more certainty
Trust doesn’t magically appear — it grows through consistent verbal support.
3. Communication Keeps Everyone Focused and Energized
Volleyball is a momentum sport.
You can lose focus quickly, especially after mistakes or long rallies.
Good communication keeps the team’s energy high, even during tough moments.
Examples of Positive Communication:
“Great pass!”
“We’ve got this point!”
“Next ball!”
“Nice try — let’s reset!”
These small moments of encouragement create a positive team culture — one where everyone feels valued.
4. Communication Helps You Read the Game Faster
Volleyball is not just physical — it’s strategic.
Players who talk help the team react quicker to opponents’ actions.
Communicators help with:
Calling open spaces
Warning about tips or short balls
Noticing blockers
Identifying the setter
Calling free balls early
When communication flows, the entire team becomes smarter, faster, and more coordinated.
5. Good Communication Reduces Stress and Mistakes
Young players often freeze because they don’t want to make the wrong decision.
Talking helps remove that fear.
When a teammate says “I got you” or “I’ll take second ball,” players relax and focus on their roles.
Silence makes everyone second-guess themselves.
Communication brings confidence and calmness.
6. It Doesn’t Take Talent — Just Effort
One of the best things about communication?
It’s a skill anyone can master.
You don’t need to jump high, hit hard, or move fast.
You only need to be:
willing to talk
willing to encourage
willing to be present for your team
Even shy players can improve communication through simple routines and short calls during practice.
Talking is one of the easiest ways to upgrade your game overnight.
7. How to Start Communicating Better Today
Here are simple habits every player can use:
✔ Call every ball loudly
Even if it’s easy. Even if no one else is near it.
✔ Celebrate good plays
Positive energy spreads fast.
✔ Talk between points
Quick reminders like “short serve,” “watch the tip,” or “hands up.”
✔ Stay vocal during warm-ups
Communication becomes automatic when practiced daily.
✔ Encourage teammates after mistakes
A supportive word can change someone’s entire match.
✔ Set the standard: be the loudest worker in the gym
Leaders aren’t always the best players — they’re the ones who speak up.
Conclusion: Communication Turns Players Into Teams
Volleyball isn’t won by individuals — it’s won by teams that move and think together.
And the only way to truly play together is by talking constantly, honestly, and confidently.
Communication builds trust.
It prevents errors.
It boosts confidence.
It keeps the team energized.
Mastering this underrated skill can transform the entire way your team plays — and it doesn’t require talent, height, or experience.
Just the willingness to speak up and stay connected.
Start communicating more, and watch your team become smarter, stronger, and more unstoppable with every match.
Pro Tip to Improve Faster
Using structured tools like our Volleyball Trainers and 48 Volleyball Training Cards helps players practice smarter, stay consistent, and improve their serving technique with clear, step-by-step drills.
Disclaimer:
The strategies in this article are intended for general educational and motivational purposes. Every team and player is different. Always use judgment, follow safety guidelines, and adapt communication techniques to your level and environment. Ovanto.org and its authors are not responsible for injuries or outcomes resulting from applying this information. Play smart, stay positive, and communicate with confidence.
