Serving is so much fun! But the overhead floater serve brings a triad of successful features for every player at any level: power, consistency, accuracy and autonomy. Overall, the overhead serve could be the second type of service to be taught towards a progression within the many types of service in volleyball. Therefore, the first type would be the underhand serve, the second overhead serve, and the third jump floater serve. In order to properly execute the overhead floater, serve, the player must have a good base of support, be able the consistently lift the ball at the projection of the tossing hand, coordinate the hip extension (main power source), and finally be able to strike the ball firmly at the midline of the body. The overhead serve requires upper body strength but to generate the floatation serving effect it is necessary proper striking skills, finesse, and a compact contact on the ball (Da Matta, Gagen, & Rhoads, 2013). Serving is a critical skill in volleyball and all players should be able to perform it very relaxed and efficiently. These are some prerequisites! Let’s enjoy talking about the Overhead Floater Serve!
This article sheds light on the expertise of serving to add meaningful illustrations about overhead serves by providing coaches and athletes with good references to the movement pattern of this type of service. In fact, a good mental image (mental visualization) with the general concepts of this skill, can really be useful for coaches (how to teach) and athletes (how to learn) overhead serves. As a fundamental concept, it is recommended to practice the serve technique in front of a mirror without a ball. After that, it is important to throw a basketball using the same movement form (kinesthetic serving motion) resembling the overhead floater, and finally practicing the serve against a wall 5, 7, and 9 m away. Another important tip for finesse of striking the ball is to contact the ball in front and above the head (over, head, serve!).
Be patient and enjoy every practice! The highlights of this article are:
(1) tips on the key points of the skill;
(2) a progression for learning this motor pattern injury free;
(3) how to learn force control for different targets;
(4) how to serve with consistency and accuracy;
