How to Set

Setting is a specialist role requiring lots of agility, accuracy and skill. The setter often controls the offensive plays by deciding where the ball should be set and then executing it perfectly. A good setter requires a range of techniques in his or her skill repertoire.  

The set is used to pass the ball above chest height. There are various sets that can be used such as the forward set, back set, jump set and so on. In this article, we’ll describe how to perform a simple forward set. While the description is simple, the development of the skill is difficult and time consuming that requires hours and hours of practice. Obviously, good coaching and instruction will reduce this learning curve.

The Forward Set

Essentially, a set is performed by cradling the ball with all fingers and using a springing action of the wrist and fingers to receive the ball and push it to the target. The extension of the arms together with the spring action of the wrist and hands gives the ball the direction and distance.

Before setting the ball, start with your feet about shoulder width apart and the right foot slightly forward than the left. Lean your body slightly forward and bend the knees about 50 degrees.  Have your hands open and about a ball width apart and in front of your chest.

As you move to the ball, try and maintain your setting posture as much as possible. Rotate your body so that your shoulders are facing in the direction of the target.

As the ball approaches, bring your hands directly in front of your forehead and slightly shift your weight to your front foot. When the ball is a couple of inches away from your fingers, move your hands towards the ball to make the set. Contact the ball primarily using the thumbs, index and middle fingers. The other fingers should only be used for guidance and ball control. Extend your arms outwards as your hand contacts the ball. Flick your wrists out near the end of your arm extension.

To increase your setting effectiveness, always try to move into position before setting so that you can perform the best possible set.