Volleyball is a fantastic team sport that requires no physical contact with other players, but is nonetheless physically demanding. Moving to the ball, positioning the limbs, jumping, sliding, and not to mention the timing and coordination of contacting a moving ball with a moving body. Furthermore, students learn that the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection, so geometry becomes part of the game to keep the ball moving in the intended direction. The ball bounces up to ~60% of it's original height, so students experience elasticity and must regulate and modulate applied force accordingly. Lastly, volleyball requires a team effort that can not be successful without communication, trust, and focus. I myself played Jr Olympic volleyball in HS and club volleyball in college and I always look forward to sharing my personal favorite ball game with students.
The younger classes will use a variety of balls and balloons to develop and coordinate skills and will also translate the skills to a racket game (probably pickle ball or badminton, TBD). The older students will stay focused on the volleyball equipment and will more comprehensively learn the rules, rotation, and game play. They are starting with very soft balls, but will gradually toughen their forearms until they are ready to bump a regulation volleyball.
