If you have ever watched a volleyball match, you have undoubtedly seen referees making all sorts of hand gestures. These referee signals are crucial in conveying decisions and guiding the game’s flow. This article will delve into volleyball referee signals, explaining their meaning and significance.
Standard signals for points and penalties
Referees accompany every point won or lost in a volleyball match with a signal. It clarifies how a team earned a point or committed an error.
Ball in or out
When the ball lands within the boundary lines, referees indicate this by pointing their flag or hand towards the ground. Conversely, they tell the flag or hand outward to show the ball is out.
Touch
If a player touches the ball before it goes out, referees handle their fingertips together to indicate a ‘touch.’ It is crucial to determine which team gets the point.
Double hit
The referee raises two fingers to signal that a player has touched the ball twice. This earns a point for the opposing team.
Understanding these signals makes the game both understandable and fair. They provide valuable insights into how the game progresses for players and spectators.
Specialized signals for game flow
Referee signals are not just for points and penalties. They also help manage the game flow, calling for time-outs, substitutions, or particular situations.
Time-out
The referee makes a T-shape with their hands to signal a time-out. This gesture tells everyone that the game is pausing.
Substitution
For substitutions, the referee uses a twirling motion with their fingers. This signals that a player is rotating in or out.
Understanding these signals will keep you in the loop during a match. They dictate the tempo and allow for game adjustments.
Signals that players should know
It is not only the spectators who benefit from understanding referee signals. Players must also know them to navigate the game effectively.
Service
Before a serve, the referee blows the whistle and points toward the serving team. Players wait for this signal to start serving.
Blocking fault
If a player makes a blocking error, the referee crosses and opens their arms to mimic a blocking motion.
These signals serve as instant feedback for players, helping them make quick decisions. Not knowing these signals can result in avoidable penalties and disrupt the game’s flow.
Conclusion
Referee signals in volleyball serve as an essential language for the sport. They offer a way for referees to communicate clearly and quickly with players, coaches, and fans. With this newfound understanding, you can now watch or play the game with an added layer of depth.
Do you think you have got the signals down? The next step is experiencing them in real-time action. Watch a volleyball match or join one to test your understanding of these crucial game elements!