SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/vb-back-row-attack

How can a back-row player legally spike a ball above the net?

Jump from behind the attack line.

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  1. Jump from behind the attack line ✔
  2. Step into the front zone first
  3. They can never spike

Why: A back-row player may attack at any height if they take off from behind the attack line. Their foot must not touch or cross that line at take-off, but they may land in front of it.

Huh, didn't know that: The attack line is 3 meters from the center line.

The dad joke
Why do back-row hitters love the attack line? It is where they draw the line.
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References

Answer: Jump from behind the attack line. A back-row player may attack at any height if they take off from behind the attack line. Their foot must not touch or cross that line at take-off, but they may land in front of it.

  1. FIVB Official Volleyball Rules 2025-2028, Rule 13.2.2.1 www.fivb.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/FIVB-Volleyball_Rules2025_2028-EN-v05.pdf
    at his/her take-off, the player's foot (feet) must neither have touched nor crossed over the attack line
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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