Sitting Volleyball

Sitting volleyball is a fun and fast sport. Players sit on the floor and use their arms to slide around the court. The net is lower than in regular volleyball, and the court is a bit smaller.

How It Is Played

Two teams of six players sit on the court. The net is much lower than in standing volleyball. Players hit the ball over the net using their hands, just like in regular volleyball. They slide on the floor to get to the ball.

The rules are mostly the same as regular volleyball. Teams get three hits to send the ball over the net. A point is scored when the ball lands on the other team's side. Players must keep part of their body on the floor when they touch the ball.

A Sport for Everyone

Sitting volleyball started in the Netherlands in 1956. It was created so people with physical disabilities could play volleyball. Today, it is one of the most popular Paralympic sports.

The sport is very fast and exciting to watch. Players dive and slide across the floor to make incredible saves. Both men's and women's teams compete at the Paralympic Games.

Fun Facts

• Sitting volleyball was invented in the Netherlands in 1956.
• The net in sitting volleyball is about 3.5 feet high, much lower than a standing volleyball net.
• Iran and Brazil are two of the strongest teams in the world.

Did You Know?

Sitting volleyball players can hit the ball just as hard as standing volleyball players, even though they play from the floor!