Good passers move their feet before the ball arrives, using quick shuffle steps to get behind it and present a stable platform. Shuffle passing drills train players to move, stop, angle the platform, and pass accurately to the target.
Shuffle passing drills
| Drill | Focus |
|---|---|
| Lateral shuffle pass | Shuffle to a tossed ball, pass to target, reset |
| Three-person passing | Tosser, passer, target; passer shuffles side to side |
| Butterfly | Continuous serve-pass-rotate drill |
| Serve receive by zones | Pass from positions 1, 6 and 5 |
| Pass and cover | Pass, then move to cover the hitter |
Passing technique
- Stay low with knees bent and weight forward.
- Keep shoulders angled toward the target.
- Do not swing the arms; let the platform angle direct the ball.
- Stop your feet before contact.
- Call the ball early.
Frequently asked questions
Why is shuffle footwork important?
It keeps your shoulders square and body balanced when passing.
What is the butterfly drill?
A serve-receive drill where players rotate from server to passer to target in a continuous loop.
How can I pass better at home?
Practise passing against a wall and footwork drills without a ball.
