Jump setting makes it harder for opponents to read your offense, making it a valuable skill for setters. But it requires mastery of the fundamentals, so it’s not recommended for beginners. So when should you start training your setters to execute jump sets?

A critical first step is teaching your setters to release the ball effectively when setting from the floor. Once they can consistently release the ball in the correct direction at the proper height, they can start working on the jump set.

To encourage proper technique, Coach Diane Flick-Williams advises players to think of jump setting as two separate actions: jumping and setting. The simple drill below helps to reinforce this idea.

Jump, then set drill

Purpose: To train setters to break up the jump setting skill into two actions.

How it works: Setters start in a single-file line along the net with a tosser in Zone 5 and a catcher in Zone 4. The tosser lobs a ball to the setter. After squaring to the target, the setter jumps to her maximum height, then sets the ball to the outside. The pin player catches the ball and returns it to the tosser. Repeat the drill with the next person in line.

Variations: Adjust the location where the ball is tossed, so setters can practice setting tight balls as well as those that are passed off the net.

Requirements: Four or more players, balls, and a half court