SSS Durham

General Overview of the Triple Ball Format:

​

a) There will be no specializing of positions, i.e. no switching to a different position from your service order. Whoever happens to be in position #3 (or position #2) in your service reception will be the designated setter, this position should be noted on game-sheet prior to match starting.
 
b) Everyone on your team will get the opportunity to play as a “Rotating Substitution” system will be in place. After the 3 ball sequence, players on the serving team will rotate clockwise. Server from position #1 will move to the bench, the first player “in line” on the bench will move to position #6. The service order will be carried over from the end of a set to the start of the next set, so the same order will be rolled over and played through the entire match.

 

c) The game follows a sequence of three rallies (service, free ball 1, free ball 2).

• 1st rally – introduced by the server

• 2nd rally – free ball given to the receiving team

• 3rd rally – free ball given to the serving team

 

d) Every ball introduced is worth one point but all three balls will be played out regardless of the results from the first two rallies.

 

e) The coach (tosser) introduces the free ball to their team, and can step into the court to do so.

 

f) A set can be won in the middle of a three ball sequence

 

g) The service rotates between teams after each three ball sequence.

 

h) A team must rotate and introduce a new server when it is their turn to serve.

 

i) Athletes can take “free balls” introduced by the coach however they feel appropriate (eg. overhead or forearm pass). The first contact should be called with the same standards as the second contact or contact by the designated setter.

 

j) After each rally is complete, teams must allow enough time for the ball to be removed from the court before starting the next sequence.

 

k) Each team is to provide a ball retriever who is responsible for the removal of all loose balls, and To provide the tossers and server with a ball to start the next sequence. The head coach, assistant coach or a competent volunteer may be the “Tosser” to introduce balls to their own team. Tossers are advised of the following when introducing free balls:

• Free balls are tossed underhand, with two hands and little to no spin, above the height of the antennae to allow athletes time to play the ball.

• The free ball will always be tossed directly to the athlete in position six.

• The free ball will be introduced when the front row players are at the net (ready to transition) and all athletes have been verbally told that the ball is being introduced, “Free Ball!”.

 

Triple Ball Video Example

.