Triple Ball 101

By Emily H. and Josie M., Grade 7 Students By Emily H. and Josie M.

The grade 7 volleyball team returned tired but pumped after this week's six-game volleyball showdown against Southridge, where we won three games and had an amazing time. This season also marks a change to the sport, for we now play "triple ball." Haven't heard of it? Well, this is how it works.  

Triple Ball 101 
Triple ball is similar to volleyball, except each team serves only once every three points. The structure of triple ball is kind of like a never-ending sandwich: Team 1 serves the ball over the net to Team 2 (the bread of our gourmet meal). The teams play the point out, but instead of moving to the next serve, a coach will toss the ball over the net to their own team. The teams then battle for the point (the meat in our delicacy). This is repeated, with the coach on the opposing team throwing the ball to their team to play out the rally (which is the cheese or lettuce, if you eat that green stuff!). The cycle repeats with Team 2 serving (the bread).

Got that? Triple ball is designed so players touch the ball more often and, as such, improve their skills faster. Triple ball requires a lot more skill, communication and teamwork. Previously, one server could win the whole game if she were technical, powerful and accurate. Now, after each serve, coaches toss two free balls, giving each team a chance to play the ball and finish the point. This is much more enjoyable because everyone is involved in the game.

We are quickly adjusting to this faster-paced game, namely by communicating more. Playing a good team such as Southridge was great because we were challenged to push each other and work as a team. Up next are our league games and this weekend's DIG IT tournament at St. John’s. Go, Wolves, and hurray, triple ball!