When I first joined a volleyball team, I didn’t think much about how tall I was. I just loved the game. I loved diving for the ball, setting it perfectly for my teammate, and hearing the crowd cheer after a great play. But the more I played, the more I noticed something: height seemed to really matter.
There was one girl on our team—taller than everyone else—who could block almost every spike and hit the ball so high and hard that no one could stop her. She wasn’t just good; she had a presence at the net that made the other team nervous. That’s when I realized, being tall helps a lot in volleyball.
But here’s the thing—I wasn’t tall. And yet, I still wanted to be great. So I started learning more about how different body types play different roles on the court. I watched games, asked questions, and studied what coaches looked for in each player. And now, after years of playing and learning, I want to share everything I’ve found about how height fits into this amazing sport.
In this article, I’ll explain the average height for volleyball players, depending on their position, gender, and level of play. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a volleyball fan like me, this guide will help you understand where height fits in—and where it doesn’t.
Why Height is Important in Volleyball
Volleyball is a game of jumping, hitting, blocking, and quick movements. Because of that, height is definitely a big advantage. Taller players can reach above the net more easily. That makes it easier for them to block the ball or hit it down hard on the other side.
But that doesn’t mean shorter players don’t belong. Volleyball is also about timing, smart decisions, fast reflexes, and good teamwork. Some of the best players I’ve ever seen weren’t the tallest ones. They were just really good at reading the game and knowing where to be.
Still, at the higher levels—like college teams or professional leagues—most players are taller than average. That’s because at those levels, every inch counts, especially when you’re trying to outjump your opponent or block a spike.
Average Height of Volleyball Players
Let’s look at the average height of players at different levels—from high school to professional. This will help you see where you stand (literally) or what to expect if you’re aiming to go further.
For Female Players
In women’s volleyball, players at the top level are usually between 5 feet 9 inches and 6 feet 1 inch tall. But this can change depending on the level:
| Playing Level | Average Height |
|---|---|
| High School | 5’6″ to 5’9″ |
| College/University | 5’9″ to 6’1″ |
| Pro/International | 6’0″ to 6’4″ |
When I was in high school, I was around 5’5″, and I often felt a little short when I stood next to our middle blocker. But I learned how to make up for it with speed and smart plays.
Also read: Top 15 Tallest Female Volleyball Players In The World
For Male Players
Men’s volleyball tends to have taller players. At the pro level, some players are nearly 7 feet tall! But again, there’s a wide range depending on age and skill level.
| Playing Level | Average Height |
|---|---|
| High School | 5’10” to 6’2″ |
| College/University | 6’2″ to 6’5″ |
| Pro/International | 6’5″ to 6’10” |
If you’ve ever watched men’s volleyball at the Olympics, you’ll see what I mean—many of those players are huge. But they also move fast and jump really high, which shows how important training is, not just height.
Average Height by Volleyball Position
Not every position needs you to be tall. Some positions need speed, quick thinking, or soft hands more than long arms. Let’s break it down.
Outside Hitter (Left Side)
Outside hitters attack the ball a lot and also help with passing. They jump a lot, both to spike and to block.
- Women: 5’10” to 6’2″
- Men: 6’3″ to 6’6″
This position is usually filled by tall, athletic players—but I’ve seen many average-height hitters who just had a great jump and timing. Those things can make up for a few inches.
Middle Blocker (Middle Hitter)
This is the spot where height helps the most. Middle blockers stand in the middle of the net and try to block the ball every time it comes over.
- Women: 6’1″ to 6’4″
- Men: 6’6″ to 6’10”
Taller players with long arms do great here. I remember one tournament where the other team had a middle blocker who seemed like a wall—nothing got past him!
Setter
Setters don’t have to be the tallest, but they need to be smart and quick. They touch the ball a lot and decide who will hit it.
- Women: 5’8″ to 6’0″
- Men: 6’0″ to 6’3″
I played as a setter once, and I learned fast that you don’t need to be super tall—you just need to know your teammates and make quick decisions.
Libero
Liberos are the shortest players on most teams. But they’re also some of the most important. They play in the back row and focus on defense and passing.
- Women: 5’5″ to 5’8″
- Men: 5’9″ to 6’1″
Liberos don’t play at the net, so height isn’t needed. What matters most here is quick feet and a lot of hustle.
Opposite Hitter (Right Side)
Opposites block and hit from the right side. They face the other team’s best hitters.
- Women: 6’0″ to 6’3″
- Men: 6’4″ to 6’8″
This spot usually goes to strong, tall players who can hit hard and block well.
Can a Good Vertical Jump Make Up for Being Short?
This is a question I asked myself over and over when I was still learning the ropes in volleyball. I wasn’t the tallest on the court, but I was always working on my jump. I would practice jumping at home, at school, anywhere I could. And you know what? It worked.
If you’re not tall, don’t feel discouraged. A strong vertical jump can close the gap between you and taller players. I’ve played with athletes who were a few inches shorter than the average but could outjump even the tallest blockers.
Average Vertical Jump by Level
| Level | Average Vertical (Women) | Average Vertical (Men) |
|---|---|---|
| High School | 15–18 inches | 18–22 inches |
| College | 20–24 inches | 22–28 inches |
| Professional | 25–30+ inches | 30–40+ inches |
Some pros have insane verticals—especially outside and opposite hitters. They might not be the tallest, but their explosive jumping ability lets them attack the ball like giants. So if you’re a bit shorter, focus on building your vertical. It can change everything.
What Do College and Pro Recruiters Look For?
I remember attending my first volleyball camp where scouts were present. Everyone looked nervous, not just about how they played—but also about their height. That’s when a coach gave advice I’ll never forget:
“Height might get you noticed, but hustle and heart will get you recruited.”
Yes, height matters, especially for front-row players. But college coaches also look at:
- Vertical jump height
- Speed and agility
- Game IQ and positioning
- Communication skills
- Attitude and teamwork
If you’re aiming for college or professional volleyball, don’t just focus on your height. Film your games, work on your skills, and let your hustle speak for itself. A few inches won’t matter if you’re outworking everyone on the court.
Indoor Volleyball vs Beach Volleyball: Height Differences
When I switched to beach volleyball for a summer, I noticed something different—height wasn’t as important. Beach volleyball is played with only two players per team. That means you have to do everything—pass, set, spike, and defend.
Key Height Differences
| Type | Average Female Height | Average Male Height |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor Volleyball | 5’9″ – 6’3″ | 6’3″ – 6’10” |
| Beach Volleyball | 5’7″ – 6’0″ | 6’0″ – 6’6″ |
Because beach volleyball requires more movement on sand and fewer blocks, players who are a bit shorter can still succeed. Quickness and smart placement of the ball matter more than brute strength or height.
In fact, some top beach volleyball proffessional aren’t very tall at all—but they know how to use the court, their body, and their mind to win points.
Also read: Beach Volleyball vs Indoor Volleyball: What’s the Difference?
Top 5 Tallest Volleyball Players in the World
1. Dmitriy Muserskiy – Russia
Height: 7 feet 2 inches (2.18 m)
Position: Middle Blocker / Opposite
Born: October 29, 1988
Dmitriy is a very famous volleyball player from Russia. He is not only super tall, but he also plays really well. In the 2012 Olympics, he helped his team win the gold medal. Even though he’s very tall, he can move quickly and jump high. Many people say he is one of the best players in the world.
2. Wuttichai Suksara – Thailand
Height: 7 feet 3 inches (2.20 m)
Position: Middle Blocker
Wuttichai is believed to be the tallest volleyball player ever. He is from Thailand. Not many people have seen him play in big matches, but his pictures are very popular online. He looks very tall when standing near the net. Even if we don’t know much about his career, his height has made him well-known.
3. Renan Buiatti – Brazil
Height: 7 feet 0.5 inches (2.15 m)
Position: Opposite
Born: January 10, 1990
Renan is a tall and strong player from Brazil. He plays in the opposite position and has been part of Brazil’s national team. His long arms help him hit the ball very hard. He is also good at blocking. People like the way he plays because he stays calm and focused, even in tough games.
4. Bartlomiej Lemanski – Poland
Height: 7 feet 1 inch (2.16 m)
Position: Middle Blocker
Born: March 15, 1996
Bartlomiej is a tall player from Poland. He is still young but already plays in big matches. Because of his height, he can block the ball very well. He jumps at the right time and stops many attacks. Fans in Poland are excited to see how much he can grow in the sport.
5. Kay van Dijk – Netherlands
Height: 6 feet 11 inches (2.11 m)
Position: Opposite
Born: June 25, 1984
Kay is a tall volleyball player from the Netherlands. He has played for many clubs in different countries. People know him for his strong hits and smart plays. Even though he’s not the tallest on this list, he has a lot of experience and has helped his team win many games.
How to Improve Your Game—Even If You’re Not Tall
So what can you do if you don’t match the “average height” for your dream position? The good news is—a lot.
Focus on What You Can Control
- Jump Training: Practice jumping every day. Box jumps, skipping, and plyometrics are magic.
- Footwork: Being quick on your feet can help you to beat taller opponents to the ball.
- Ball Control: Passing, setting, and serving skills are just as important as spikes.
- Game IQ: Watch games, study plays, and learn from better players.
- Stay Positive: Coaches love players who don’t give up and keep pushing forward.
Remember, volleyball is a sport for all body types. Tall, short, lean, strong—there’s a place for everyone who loves the game and is willing to put in the work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best height for a volleyball player?
There’s no one best height—it depends on the position. Tall players are great for blocking and hitting. Shorter players shine in defense and setting. It’s just about what you do with your strengths.
Can short players play volleyball at a high level?
Yes, indeed. Many successful liberos, setters, and even some hitters are are relatively short. Skill, effort, and smart play sometimes are more significant than inches.
Is height more important in indoor or beach volleyball?
Height is more important in indoor volleyball because of net blocking and spiking. In beach volleyball, speed, endurance, and overall ability are more important.
What is the average height of a college volleyball player?
For women, it’s approximately 5’9″ to 6’1″. For men, it’s around 6’2″ to 6’5″. These heights change depending on division and position.
Does vertical jump training help if I’m short?
Yes, absolutely. A powerful vertical jump can assist in blocking, spiking, and defending even if you’re not the tallest.
Final Thoughts: What’s the “Right” Height for Volleyball?
The truth is, there is no perfect height. There’s only the height you are—and what you do with it.
Volleyball needs tall players at the net. It also needs quick, smart players in the back row. It needs leaders who set up the play, and defenders who refuse to let the ball touch the floor. Every team needs a mix of players. And every player has something special to offer.
If you’re tall, use your height as an advantage—but don’t stop working hard. If you’re shorter, use your speed, your brain, and your heart. You’ll be surprised how far you can go.
Regardless of whether you are 5 feet 4 or 6 feet 6—there is room for you on the court.