A dig or dig pass is one of the basic moves in volleyball that involves fielding the balls that are about to hit the court. Learning to dig is an important skill for everyone on the team as that keeps your team in the rally and gives your team a chance to make the points. Failure to execute the digs properly can prove catastrophic for the volleyball team. In this article, we’re going to explain “What is a dig in volleyball?” why it is so important, and the different types of digs. So read on to learn everything you need to know about volleyball digs!
What is a Dig in Volleyball?
A dig is a defensive play in volleyball where players use their forearms (or hands) to prevent the ball from hitting the ground. A dig may involve lunging, diving, or any other reactive moment. Digs mostly happen when an opposing player serves or spike the ball toward your team. This technique keeps the point alive while offering the defense a chance to spike back.
For example, when the opponent team spike or serve the ball over the net, it’s considered an attack on the passer’s team. If a player on the other side of the net is able to get under the ball and passes it, it’s considered a dig.
Who Makes the Dig in Volleyball?
Before anything else, let’s acknowledge that spikes are hard-driven balls, and only a strong athlete can spike back. Every player in the team, irrespective of their position, can make digs, but most commonly, these are made by the Libero and defensive specialist positions. The Liberos must be trying for every dig possible, as their entire job revolves around picking up spikes and hard-to-hit balls. The setter can also make digs as they are responsible for receiving the serve and setting the ball for the attack.
Why is Digging Important in Volleyball
In volleyball, digging is important because a successfully executed dig can provide an accurate and consistent passing that’s essential for creating multiple attacks. A well-executed dig can be the difference between winning and losing a point. It allows the team to stay in the rally and provides them a chance to score a point. Similarly, when a team is able to make a series of good digs, it can demoralize the other team. This is because it shows that the team is not giving up and is still fighting for the point.
3 Main Types of Dig in Volleyball
Volleyball digs can be of various types , however the 3 most important types are explained below:
Dive Dig
A dive dig is a type of defensive play in volleyball where a player dives to the side to dig the ball. This technique is advantageous as it allows the player to cover a larger area on the court. It can be executed with one or two hands, although it is recommended to practice with both.
The general rule of thumb is that a player can reach anywhere within one step and a full extension of their height while on the ground. While the practical radius is typically less than this during a game, it’s a helpful exercise in understanding the defensive zone a player should be able to cover on the court.
Absorb Dig
The absorb dig is an essential technique in volleyball that is particularly useful for passing strong spikes without losing control. Although it may feel unnatural for inexperienced passers who are used to moving forward for better control, any controlled movement when making contact during the pass provides better control in different ways.
By moving backward in the absorb pass, the ball’s speed is slowed down, making it easier to handle. Learning how to accomplish the same technique to either side can also help in absorbing power when diving or lunging to receive. Mastering the absorb dig is crucial for any player looking to improve their defensive skills on the court.
Overhand Dig
The overhand dig is a crucial skill for any volleyball player, especially when faced with powerful spikes that are difficult to control. While setting the ball is usually the preferred method, sometimes the ball can slip through a passer’s fingers, making the overhand pass the only option.
This move involves creating a flat platform above the head and directing the ball upwards, which is why it’s mostly used by front-court setters and those covering the short. Although it can offer more control when digging spikes, the overhand dig is a risky move that requires confidence and skill.
It’s also important to note that there is a higher chance of the ball hitting the player’s face, so if you’re intimidated by powerful spikes, it’s best to avoid this technique. Nevertheless, for struggling right-side hitters and middle slides, the overhand dig can be a lifesaver, bailing the setter out while removing them from the setting rotation.
Tips to Improve Digging
Looking for “how to improve digging in volleyball?” Read on the below section as we’ve listed some important tips that can assist you in improving your digging skills:
- Keep an eye on the ball at all times and practice receiving serves and spikes from a variety of angles.
- Work on your footwork so that you can get under the ball quickly.
- Use your forearms to absorb the impact of the ball rather than trying to stop it with your arms.
- Direct the ball to a teammate who can set it for an attack.
- Use the right digging technique.
- Don’t try to dig using your hands, as it can lead to a hand injury and direct the ball in the wrong direction.
- Work on your reaction time, as volleyball is a fast-paced game, and reacting quickly is essential to make a successful dig.
- Watch professional volleyball players and see how they dig the ball.
Common Digging Mistakes
Below are some of the common mistakes we observe the players commit while performing the dig.
- Players try to dig the ball with their swinging arms or bend their elbows while hitting the ball.
- Use their hands to hit the ball.
- Position the body incorrectly (stand up straight, which makes the digging much harder than it needs to be.
- Hit the ball too harder.
- Dig from the wrong position in the court.
FAQs
1 – What is the main purpose of the dig?
The main purpose of the dig is to stop the ball from hitting the floor of the court.
2 – Who are the best diggers on the team?
Liberoes are the team’s best diggers of the team. However, the other defensive players in the back row may also be skilled diggers.
3- What is the difference between dig and pass?
A dig is used to save a hard-hit ball that is aimed toward the ground, while a pass is used to receive a lower and slower-hit ball that is usually not aimed toward the ground. In simple words, when an opponent player spikes the ball, and your teammate is able to get under the ball and pass it, it’s called a dig. However, when the ball touches by a player’s teammate first before the player passes it, it would be considered a regular pass.
The Verdict – What is a Dig in Volleyball
We’ve left no stone unturned to answer all your queries regarding “What is a dig in volleyball?” This crucial defensive technique is essential to keep your team in the game and give them the opportunity to score more points. To improve your digging skills and take them to the next level, it’s important to avoid common digging mistakes and implement the tips mentioned above. So keep practicing and have a safe digging experience! 🙂