Volleyball

Volleyball is a team sport in which two teams of six players each compete against each other across a netting. Each side attempts to earn points by securing a ball on the opposing team's court while adhering to a set of predetermined regulations. Since Tokyo 1964, it has been a part of the official programme of the Summer Olympic Games throughout the summer months. Beach volleyball was first included in the Olympic programme in the Atlanta 1996 Games. Sitting volleyball is the modified form of volleyball that will be played in the Summer Paralympic Games.

It is customary for players to strike or push the ball (brief contact) using their hands or arms, although players may lawfully hit or push the ball with any part of their body.

Spiking and blocking (since these plays are performed over the top of the net, the vertical leap is an athletic talent that is highly stressed in volleyball), as well as specific player roles and offensive and defensive structures, have all developed through time in the sport of volleyball.