Volleyball is a sport that is played by two teams of six players each. Each player has a specific role on the court and one of these roles is the opposite hitter. The opposite hitter is a critical player on the volleyball court and is responsible for a significant portion of the offensive attack. In this article, we will take a closer look at what an opposite hitter is, their responsibilities, and the skills they need to excel in this position.
What is an Opposite Hitter?
An opposite hitter is a player who is positioned on the court opposite the setter. This position is also referred to as the “right-side hitter” because it is typically the player’s right arm that is used to hit the ball. The opposite hitter is responsible for executing the second attack after the setter sets the ball.
Responsibilities of an Opposite Hitter
Offensive Powerhouse
The opposite hitter is responsible for delivering powerful hits and attacking the ball from the back row. They need to be able to execute a wide range of shots, including spikes, tips, and shots aimed at the opponent’s blockers.
Consistency
The opposite hitter must be consistent in their offensive production. They need to be able to attack the ball effectively and consistently, regardless of the situation on the court.
Versatility
The opposite hitter must be versatile in their offensive game. They should be able to execute a variety of shots, including fast balls, line shots, and shots aimed at the corners of the court.
Skills Needed to Excel as an Opposite Hitter
Strong Arm
The opposite hitter must have a strong arm to deliver powerful hits and to attack the ball from the back row. They should be able to generate a lot of power on their shots and be able to hit the ball with speed and accuracy.
Quick Hands
The opposite hitter must have quick hands to be able to tip the ball over the blockers or to execute a quick shot. They should be able to react quickly and effectively to the ball and be able to execute shots with precision.
Good Vision
The opposite hitter must have good vision to be able to see the entire court and to anticipate where the ball will be set. They should be able to see the blockers, the setter, and the defenders and be able to adjust their shots accordingly.
Athleticism
The opposite hitter must be athletic and have a good vertical jump. They should be able to jump high and reach for balls that are set above the net. They should also be able to move quickly and effectively around the court to get into position for their shots.
Mental Toughness
The opposite hitter must be mentally tough to be able to perform under pressure. They should be able to stay focused and remain calm in high-pressure situations, such as the final points of a close match.
The Importance of the Opposite Hitter
The opposite hitter is a critical player on the volleyball court and is responsible for a significant portion of the offensive attack. They need to be consistent in their offensive production, versatile in their offensive game, and possess the skills and mental toughness to excel in this position. A strong and effective opposite hitter can help to lead a team to victory and make a significant impact on the outcome of a match.
Tips for Improving as an Opposite Hitter
Practice, Practice, Practice
The only way to improve your opposite hitting skills is to practice. Practice hitting the ball in different scenarios, with different levels of pace, power, and spin.
Footwork
Footwork is crucial in volleyball, especially for opposite hitters. Practice your footwork, keeping your feet close to the ground and getting your body into the right position to hit the ball.
Read the Setter
One of the key skills for an opposite hitter is being able to read the setter. Try to get a good sense of where the setter is likely to set the ball and get into position early.
Power and Precision
The ability to hit the ball with power and precision is essential for an opposite hitter. Practice hitting the ball with force, but also focus on placing the ball in specific areas of the court.
Increase Your Vertical Jump
The higher you can jump, the better your chances are of hitting the ball over the block. Practice exercises that improve your vertical jump, such as plyometrics and jump training.
Watch Professional Volleyball Players
One of the best ways to improve as an opposite hitter is to watch professional volleyball players. Pay attention to their footwork, technique, and the way they hit the ball.
Get Feedback
Get feedback from coaches or teammates on your opposite hitting skills. Ask for tips and advice, and take any constructive criticism seriously.
Conclusion
An Opposite Hitter in Volleyball is a player who hits the ball with their non-dominant hand from the right side of the court. This is the position that is typically used to make quick and powerful attacks on the opposite side of the court, adding variety and unpredictability to the team’s offense. The Opposite Hitter is a crucial part of any successful volleyball team and must have strong arm and jumping skills to effectively perform their role.
