In volleyball, only the game captain (and in some codes the head coach) may speak to the first referee about rules, and only when the ball is out of play. Stay respectful, ask for clarification rather than argue, and accept judgement calls.
Who can talk to officials
| Person | What they can do |
|---|---|
| Game captain | Ask for explanations of rule applications |
| Head coach | Request timeouts and substitutions; some codes allow queries |
| Players | Should not argue calls |
| Parents and fans | Should never address officials |
Tips
- Wait until the rally ends.
- Use a calm tone and short questions.
- Learn common referee hand signals.
- Accept judgement calls such as ball handling.
- Protests on rule interpretation must follow the competition’s procedure.
Rules reference: FIVB Official Volleyball Rules. USA Volleyball, NCAA and NFHS rules differ in some details.
Frequently asked questions
Can players challenge calls?
Some competitions use video challenge systems requested by coaches; otherwise judgement calls are final.
What happens if a player argues?
The referee can issue warnings or sanctions, including penalty points.
What do yellow and red cards mean in volleyball?
A yellow card is a warning with no penalty. A red card is a penalty that gives the opponent a point and the serve. More serious misconduct leads to expulsion or disqualification.
