Net Gains
By Ben Bodipo-Memba
When battling at the net with a hitter, the blocker needs to attain every
advantage possible. A seemingly obvious part of the block is keeping your
eyes open and finishing your block. The tendency is to shut your eyes when a
hitter makes contact. In this photo, Paul is doing a great job of keeping his
eyes open, making it easier to see where the hitter is hitting and what type
of shot the hitter is using so he can adjust if needed. The hitter is trying
a shot but Paul is doing the right thing by finishing his block with his hands
high and spread so his teammates can play around him.
About the Author
Ben Bodipo-Memba is an assistant coach for the Georgia Tech women's team
and is also assisting this summer with the U.S. women's national team training
program. Bodipo-Memba played in the recent USA Open Volleyball Championships
in Denver for the Under Armour WB team. One of Bodipo-Memba's teammates was
former Stanford player Paul Bocage (blocking in this photo).
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