There was one Thursday afternoon in high school when our coach told us we’d be scrimmaging against the varsity team. My stomach dropped. I was still trying to master my serves and positioning. Scrimmage? That sounded like a full match. And it kind of was.
I thought we were just going to do some drills, but instead, coach split us into two full teams. Jerseys, scoreboard on, referees ready. The only difference? No audience and no pressure of a real game. But for us, it felt just as intense.
That day was a turning point. I understood what it meant to play as a team, react fast, cover the court, and communicate better.
I made mistakes, sure, but I learned faster than any drill could have taught me. That’s the power of a scrimmage in volleyball —it’s more than just practice. It’s where real progress begins.
What Is a Scrimmage in Volleyball?
A scrimmage is a practice game. It looks like a real match, but it’s part of training. The coach splits players into teams. They serve, pass, hit, block, and rotate—just like in a normal game.
But there’s a big difference: the coach can stop the action, give tips, and let players try new things. There’s no pressure to win. The goal is to improve and prepare for real matches.
Why Coaches Use Scrimmages
Scrimmages help players take what they learn in drills and use it during real play. In drills, you repeat one skill. In scrimmages, everything happens together—serving, receiving, setting, hitting, and defending.
These practice games help players:
- Learn to play under pressure
- Get better at teamwork
- Talk more on the court
- Fix mistakes that happen during live play
- Try different spots and roles on the team
Coaches also watch scrimmages to see who fits where and which strategies work best.
Scrimmage vs. Real Match
| What Happens | Scrimmage | Real Match |
|---|---|---|
| Score keeping | Optional | Always done |
| Referees | Sometimes used | Always present |
| Coach can stop play | Yes | No |
| Substitutions | As needed | Limited by rules |
| Game pressure | Low | High |
| Audience | Usually none | Often many people watching |
Scrimmages give players the feel of a real match, but with space to learn and grow.
What Happens in a Volleyball Scrimmage?
Players are split into teams. The game begins with a serve, and play goes on like a regular match. But here’s the difference: the coach can jump in any time.
They might pause the game, offer advice, or switch players around. Sometimes they repeat a play if something goes wrong. The idea is to fix things as they happen.
Scrimmages also give every player a chance to be on the court and try new roles. It’s like practicing in full speed but without the stress of losing.
Types of Volleyball Scrimmages
1. Team vs Team
Players are divided and play against each other during practice.
2. Scrimmage with Another Team
Your team practices against a different school or club team. It’s friendly, but still very useful.
3. Position-Based Scrimmage
Specific positions—like hitters, setters, or liberos—focus on their roles while scrimmaging against each other.
4. Timed Scrimmage
Instead of playing to 25 points, the coach sets a timer—like 20 or 30 minutes. The goal is to focus on steady play.
How Scrimmages Help Volleyball Players Improve
Scrimmages help because they feel like real matches. In drills, you know what’s coming. In scrimmages, anything can happen. That’s where the learning really happens.
During scrimmages, players learn to:
- React to fast-changing situations
- Cover the court better
- Communicate clearly with teammates
- Make quick decisions
Setters get better at choosing who to set. Hitters learn how to adjust. Defensive players learn to dig and react under pressure.
What Coaches Do During Scrimmages
While players are scrimmaging, coaches are watching closely. They might stop the game and explain a mistake or give praise. They can switch players around to try new things.
Coaches use scrimmages to:
- Watch effort and focus
- Try out new lineups
- Build team chemistry
- Give live feedback
Some coaches even record scrimmages and show players how to improve.
Simple Rules Coaches Use During Scrimmage
| Rule Type | What It Means |
| Rally Scoring | Every rally scores a point |
| Open Subbing | Players switch freely |
| Coach Can Pause | Play can stop for teaching |
| Shorter Games | May play to 15 or 21 |
| Flexible Rotations | Teams rotate but can adjust freely |
These flexible rules help players stay relaxed and focused on getting better.
When Teams Usually Scrimmage
Teams often scrimmage at these times:
- Before a season starts
- Before tournaments or matches
- After a break (like holidays)
- On light practice days
- When trying out new strategies
Scrimmaging helps players stay sharp and test their skills before facing real opponents.
Why Scrimmages Are So Helpful
Scrimmages offer a safe place to grow. Players don’t have to be perfect. They can try hard, make mistakes, and learn from them. Everyone gets more touches on the ball and more chances to be part of live play.
They help players:
- Improve faster than with drills alone
- Practice working together
- Build stronger confidence
- Fix real-game problems before actual matches
Easy Tips for Players During Scrimmage
- Act like it’s a real match
- Keep talking with your teammates
- Give full effort—even if it’s just practice
- Don’t stress over mistakes—they help you learn
- Ask your coach questions if you’re unsure
Scrimmages are your chance to grow—make the most of them.
How Coaches Use Scrimmages to Find Talent
Coaches can learn a lot from scrimmages. They watch how players behave when things get tough. They look for leaders. They notice who plays smart, not just fast.
Sometimes, a great scrimmage can earn you more court time or even a starting spot.
Scrimmages in College and Club Volleyball
In college and high-level clubs, scrimmages are often serious. Some are private, while others are open to fans. These games help coaches decide who makes the final team and which lineups work best.
They also let players get used to game speed and pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a scrimmage an official volleyball match?
No, it’s a practice match meant for learning and improving.
How long is a volleyball scrimmage?
It can be short or long—anywhere from 30 minutes to more than an hour.
Do scrimmages have referees?
Sometimes, yes. It depends on the coach’s choice.
Can beginners join scrimmages?
Absolutely! Scrimmages are great for all skill levels.
How often do teams scrimmage?
Many teams scrimmage once or twice a week.
Final Thoughts
Scrimmages are more than just practice—they are where real learning happens. Players can test their skills, learn from mistakes, and grow faster than ever. Coaches can teach better, plan better, and build stronger teams.
So next time your coach says, “It’s scrimmage day,” be ready. That’s your moment to shine and become a better volleyball player.