7th-8th GRADE RULE MODIFICATIONS
(Unless specified, games will be played
according to high school rules).
7th-8th Grade Objectives: 7th/8th grade volleyball refines fundamental movement and volleyball sport specific skills while continuing to introduce and develop more advanced fundamentals and competitive skills of the game. Minimum playing time for all players must be facilitated (each player must play in at least 33% of match time) through the NFHS (National Federation of High School) Volleyball rules
Games are played according to the National Federation of State High School Associations Volleyball Rules Book (NFHS). Below are modifications and clarifications adopted by KIDSPORTS for teams in the 7/8th grade.
I. The Match:
A regular season match will consist of 2 out of 3 games.
II. Scoring:
Rally scoring will be used. The winner of a game shall be the first team to 25 points. If a third game is necessary, it will be played to 15 points. All games must have a two-point margin for victory with a cap of 27 points in the first two games and a cap of 17 points in the third game.
III. Time Limits:
The total match will have a 55-minute time limit. If time limit is reached, finish the point if in the middle of play. Regardless of score of game, the match is over. If a team has already won 2 games, teams will continue to play until they’ve reached the time limit. (This modification is to encourage practice/skill building. No score will be kept for the 3rd game).
IV. Time Outs:
Time Outs (2 per game) shall not exceed 30 seconds.
V. The Server:
The server is a designated back row player and cannot come to the net to attack the ball. Under rally scoring, a let serve is legal and the ball is in play.
Each player will receive only one ‘practice toss’ in total per rotation. Referee may award a point to the other team each time a player continues to do a “practice toss” before each serve.
VI. The Court:
A full size court 30′ X 30′ for each half will be utilized.
VII. The Serving Line:
The serving line will be at 28 feet from the center line.
VIII. Net:
Net height will be 7′ 4 1/8”.
IX. Ball:
7th and 8th grades will use a regulation ball provided by KIDSPORTS.
X. Team Composition:
A team shall consist of six (6) players on the court at one time. At least four players must be present to start a game. If a player shows up after a game has begun, he/she should be inserted into the game at an appropriate time.
XI. Playing Requirements: 7/8th grade volleyball plays pure NFHS volleyball rules while honoring the minimum playing time for each player (33% of match time available)
Substitutions: All teams in the upper division shall adhere to the regular high school substitution rules. Teams playing in all other divisions can choose to use the simple player rotation method used in 6th grade or use high school substitution rules. The coach must choose one method or the other and stick with it through an entire game. Different methods can be used in each separate game within a match.
Failure to play players the required amount shall result in a forfeit of the match
*Coach must clear with Sports Manager if a player does not play required minimum playing time due to disciplinary reasons. This must be cleared prior to the game.
XII. Libero (lee-bah-ro)
The Libero is a defensive specialist.
Why would a KIDSPORTS team use a libero?
Utilize a player who has exceptional back row skills.
Give a defensive specialist/smaller player a chance to play more than ½ of the game if they don’t play front row.
Start to learn the high-school game/rules.
The libero CAN:
Substitute for any back row position
Serve from one spot in the rotation
Sub out/Sub in on the same possession
The libero CANNOT:
Attack above the net anywhere on the court
Set the ball overhand from in front of the 10 ft. line resulting in an attack
Play the front row
Libero Procedure:
Designate the Libero in the starting line-up
Libero must wear a different color jersey (or a penny)
The Libero substitutes freely and immediately after a play without stopping at the net (as with formal substitutions).
The libero and the player she is replacing must both exit and enter the court behind the 10′ line.