Ep 48: More Than Kills: The Complete Outside Hitter

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Ep 48: More Than Kills: The Complete Outside Hitter

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Outside hitters are asked to do it all: pass, defend, lead, and take big swings—often when the play is out of system. In the Season 2 finale of Bump, Set, Mic, Brian and Chuck welcome back Sam Moyerman for a deep dive into one of volleyball's most demanding positions. From what coaches look for in a young hitter to how the role changes with age and level, the conversation explores the skills, mindset, and adaptability it takes to succeed on the outside. Whether you're a player preparing for tryouts, a parent trying to understand a coach's decisions, or an athlete thinking about playing in college, this episode offers practical guidance on developing a more complete game—and finding the right fit as you progress. Segment 1 – The Outside Hitter: Role, Responsibilities, and Evolution (0:00 – 25:34) Brian and Chuck introduce the Season 2 finale and returning guest Sam Moyerman, whose coaching experience spans club, high school, and college volleyballChuck describes the outside hitter as the team's "workhorse": a frequent attacker who is also expected to pass, defend, and contribute from the back rowWhy outside hitters often get the most swings—including difficult, out-of-system balls—and why they need to be ready for another touch after passingHow players may move between positions as they grow: younger athletes should learn the whole game rather than get attached to a position too earlyHow the game's shift above the net can change opportunities for shorter outside hitters as players get olderWhy passing ability becomes increasingly important, and how outside hitters who can pass and attack may stay on the court for all six rotationsThe confidence and resilience coaches value: wanting the ball, accepting mistakes, recovering quickly, and leading through positive body languageWhy an outside hitter's influence goes beyond kills: they can steady a team, set its tone, and help teammates share the work and credit Segment 2 – Evaluating and Developing Outside Hitters (26:25 – 58:39) What coaches notice when evaluating a hitter: size and athleticism, but also movement, transition footwork, response to teammates, and decision-makingHeight can help open doors at higher levels, but jumping ability, skill, and technique also matter; the coaches discuss how players may find opportunities across NCAA divisionsWhy young outside hitters should prioritize serve receive and passing—not just power hitting—and work on finishing the pass before transitioning to attackThe importance of approach mechanics and avoiding a "goofy-footed" approach on the left sideBuilding a varied hitting "toolbox": line and cross-court swings, rolls, tips, cut shots, and using the blockReading the defense and making the shot decision in the air, rather than deciding before the set arrivesHow outside hitters can contribute on imperfect sets by putting pressure on the other team, even when a kill isn't availableBlocking as part of team defense: tracking the hitter, protecting the sideline, staying balanced, and using a soft block to keep the ball playableHow coaches can develop aggression without recklessness, and why leadership means supporting teammates rather than blaming themManaging frustration and body language: take concerns to the coach at the right time, but stay engaged and composed on the court Segment 3 – Tryouts, Playing Time, and the Road Ahead (59:25 – 1:24:43) What parents may miss when focusing only on kills: serve-receive performance, defensive positioning, transition, teamwork, and body language all affect a player's impactWhy coaches may accept some attacking errors from an aggressive hitter—and why a player who avoids mistakes but doesn't put pressure on the opponent may not be as effectiveTryout advice: show potential, athleticism, effort, and what you do between contacts; don't simply play it safe to avoid making a mistakeHow to think about an offer at a different position: stay open-minded, ask what will support development, and consider playing time and growth—not only team or position labelsWhat can earn or cost playing time, including serve-receive consistency, effective swings, effort on defense, positive energy, and willingness to do the team's workHow to stay valuable when you're not getting many sets: pass, cover, move into position, encourage teammates, and make the most of your opportunitiesWhat college coaches may project beyond current performance, including jump touch, athletic potential, and a player's ability to contribute in multiple skillsRecruiting-video guidance: include serve receive and a range of attacks, sets, tempos, and shot choices—not repeated clips of the same swingSeek realistic feedback from multiple coaches and consider the range of programs within each college divisionWhy beach volleyball and doubles can help outside hitters improve passing, transition, ball control, and all-around playClosing advice: don't decide what to do with the ball too early—and don't pass ...

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