Learning beach volleyball passing techniques is one of the most basic aspects of volleyball and the most important.
Hi, I am Stein Metzger a 2004 Olympian, an NCAA MVP at UCLA, a three time NCAA champion setter, and a two time Manhattan Beach Open champion. I am from Hawaii and was recruited straight out of high school to UCLA at the age of 18. Being able to properly bump a volleyball is crucial to moving forward in volleyball.
Initiating a point with a brilliant bump is such an amazing feeling. Bumping is such a vital skill to master and takes time and practice but come game time all of your hard work becomes worth it!
You can view all six videos on beach volleyball passing techniques by becoming a member of volleyball1on1.com.
Volleyball Passing Techniques – Prepare (Video 1)
Mentally preparing for a pass as well as getting into the right position on the court is very important. You must prepare yourself for the next play and anticipate where the ball is going to go and what your partner is going to do next. Being able to read the court and understand the game is just as important as being able to mastering the skills. Mental preparation is key in volleyball.
Volleyball Passing Techniques – Sandcrab (Video 2)
The sandcrab approach is where instead of crossing your feet and taking your feet off of the sand you shuffle your feet, this allows you to have more control over your body and be prepared for anything. When trying to get into position to approach the ball it is important that you do not trip over yourself, by using the sandcrab approach it will ensure that you stay on top of your game with no mistakes.
Volleyball Passing Techniques – Hips (Video 3)
Your hips are a very important part of being able to properly bump the ball. You must fight to get your hips around the ball so that you are receiving the ball on your midline and are facing your target. Always try and square up and face the middle of the court when preparing to bump the ball.
Volleyball Passing Techniques – Balance (Video 4)
Keeping your balance is very important when bumping the volleyball. You will want to avoid putting your weight behind you, which will cause you to reach for the ball and result in falling. With that being said you do not want to allow your weight to fall in front of you either, but instead in the middle of your feet keeping your balance.
Volleyball Passing Techniques – Dont’s (Video 5)
When learning how to bump a volleyball you must try and keep your correct form; any alterations can lead into a bad pass. Many people tend to “water ski”, which is when you change your feet into a stepping position rather then your normal position where your feet are directly under your hips and your knees bent.
Volleyball Passing Techniques – Finish (Video 6)
Once you have made contact with the ball and your pass is complete it is important that you don’t stop there. You must be thinking about your positioning and what your next move is going to be. Always remember to move after the pass and never stand still and watch your pass in play. Anticipation is key in volleyball.
Remember, solid beach volleyball passing techniques is one of the most important elements of the game. You can not get a kill with out a great bump!
View all six videos on beach volleyball passing techniques and more by becoming a member of volleyball1on1.com.
| ![]() |














