Summer isn’t over yet! So there’s still some time left to enjoy a little volleyball on an alternative surface to switch things up a little. If volleyball is your game of choice, you might want to try beach volleyball while still enjoying the beloved sport in the warm outdoor weather.

But what exactly is the difference between beach and indoor volleyball, besides the surface?

1. Court Size

The court sizes for beach and indoor volleyball are quite different. Beach courts measure 16m x 8m with no attack line. Players can hit the ball from anywhere on their side. Indoor courts are larger, and measure 18m x 9m, with a parallel attack line that’s 3m from the centre line. The players in the back row need to stay behind this line when they hit the ball.

The reason why beach courts are smaller is because of the challenge of this surface. If you ever try a lateral sprint through the sand, you’ll quickly realize how much speed you lose. Smaller courts help make sure that the ball stays live longer, with more entertaining rallies.

2. Number of Players

Indoor volleyball is played with six players on each side, with each player having a specific position. Specific rotations help ensure that each player maintains his or her position.

Beach volleyball is usually played with doubles with no specific positions – just a left and a right player. The majority of beach volleyball players are able to spike, dig, and block. At more competitive levels, one player is dedicated to blocking, and the other to digging.

3. Balls

Indoor volleyballs are heavier than outdoor balls, and are made out of leather. Beach volleyballs, on the other hand, are softer, lighter and slightly larger compared to indoor balls. These features allow them to float more in the air.

4. Scoring

Indoor volleyball games consist of five sets. The first team that reaches 25 points wins the set. The team that wins is the one that is able to reach three sets. If necessary, a fifth set can be played as a tiebreaker, which is played to 15 points. After every game, the teams switch sides.

Beach volleyball matches consist of a best-of-three series, where each game is played to 21 points. Two sets wins the match. If necessary, a third tiebreaker match can be played, which is played up to 15 points.

Teams must win by two points in both beach and indoor volleyball. In addition, both games use rally scoring, which means points can be won without serving the ball.

These are the basics of the sport in different venues. Ready to play? If so, visit VenomVolleyball.ca today and sign up!