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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/vb-lift-catch

In volleyball, what is it called when the ball is caught or thrown instead of hit?

A catch, often called a lift.

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  1. A catch, or lift ✔
  2. A double contact
  3. An assisted hit

Why: The ball must be hit, not caught or thrown. It has to bounce off the player cleanly. If it comes to rest, the referee calls a catch, also known as a lift.

Huh, didn't know that: The ball may touch any part of the body, even a foot.

The dad joke
Why did the ref call a lift? The player was being too clingy with the ball.
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References

Answer: A catch, or lift. The ball must be hit, not caught or thrown. It has to bounce off the player cleanly. If it comes to rest, the referee calls a catch, also known as a lift.

  1. FIVB Official Volleyball Rules 2025-2028, Rule 9.2.2 www.fivb.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/FIVB-Volleyball_Rules2025_2028-EN-v05.pdf
    The ball must not be caught and/or thrown. It can rebound in any direction.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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