6 Tips for Adapting Drills to Beginners, Intermediates, and Advanced Players

 

Not every volleyball drill fits all skill levels. A key part of effective coaching is adapting exercises so that each player—whether beginner, intermediate, or advanced—can learn, develop, and challenge themselves appropriately. Tailoring drills ensures engagement, safety, and optimal skill progression. Here are 6 tips for adapting volleyball drills to fit every player on your team.

1. Adjust Complexity and Rules

Objective: Ensure drills match skill level without causing frustration.
Execution:

• Beginners: Simplify drills, reduce court size, or allow multiple attempts.

• Intermediate: Introduce standard rules and moderate challenge.

• Advanced: Use full-court conditions, higher intensity, and additional constraints (e.g., time limits, defensive pressure).
  Tip: Complexity should increase gradually to match skill progression.

2. Modify Ball Speed and Height

Objective: Help players develop proper timing and technique.
Execution:

• Beginners: Use softer, slower balls to focus on mechanics.

• Intermediate: Increase speed and set height to simulate realistic game scenarios.

• Advanced: Introduce high-speed, unpredictable balls for reaction training.
  Tip: Adjusting speed and trajectory allows players to practice safely while improving precision.

3. Scale Court Size and Positioning

Objective: Improve movement, spacing, and decision-making.
Execution:

• Beginners: Use smaller courts or reduce movement zones.

• Intermediate: Introduce full-court movement with moderate coverage expectations.

• Advanced: Practice full-court positioning with multiple attackers, blockers, and rotations.
  Tip: Court adjustments control physical demands and skill focus for each level.

4. Vary Drill Intensity and Repetitions

Objective: Match physical and cognitive load to ability.
Execution:

• Beginners: Shorter drills with more frequent rest, emphasizing quality over quantity.

• Intermediate: Moderate repetitions with brief rest intervals, combining skill and endurance.

• Advanced: High-intensity, extended drills to simulate match fatigue and decision-making under pressure.
  Tip: Gradually increase intensity to build stamina and resilience without overwhelming players.

5. Introduce Decision-Making Challenges Gradually

Objective: Enhance volleyball IQ and adaptability.
Execution:

• Beginners: Focus on simple decision-making, such as choosing correct passing zones.

• Intermediate: Add situational choices, like attack vs. defense or setter recognition.

• Advanced: Include multiple simultaneous options, fast attacks, and unpredictable scenarios.
  Tip: Teaching decision-making progressively ensures players develop confidence and tactical awareness.

6. Offer Scaled Feedback and Encouragement

Objective: Support learning while maintaining motivation.
Execution:

• Beginners: Give frequent, positive feedback and break skills into smaller steps.

• Intermediate: Combine encouragement with corrective feedback on technique.

• Advanced: Focus on self-assessment, advanced tactics, and fine-tuning mechanics.
  Tip: Feedback should match skill level to maintain confidence and drive improvement.

Conclusion

Adapting drills to each player’s skill level is essential for effective coaching, skill development, and long-term growth. By implementing these 6 tips, you can ensure that beginners, intermediates, and advanced players remain challenged, engaged, and progressing safely.

For coaches seeking a complete resource with drills, exercises, and strategies for all skill levels, explore the MASTER OF VOLLEYBALL - The Ultimate Coaching Collection