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Ball ControlFundamentals

Balloon Volleyball Control Drill

Slowing the ball down with a balloon gives the youngest players extra time to get their body and platform in the right position, building confident contact technique before they ever touch a real volleyball.

Age RangeAges 6+
Duration6–8 minutes
Group SizePairs
SportVolleyball

Equipment Needed

  • One balloon per pair (or a very soft, light ball)

Setup

  • Partners stand a few feet apart, facing each other, each pair with one balloon.
  • No net needed — this drill works in any open space, indoors or out.
Balloon Volleyball Control DrillABPartners a few feet apart, one balloonTwo-handed platform tap; count consecutive taps as a team goal

Instructions

  1. Partner A gently taps the balloon up to Partner B using a two-handed forearm pass (platform) shape.
  2. Partner B catches or controls the balloon, resets their platform, and taps it back the same way.
  3. Once the group is comfortable, introduce a simple overhead set-hands shape for taps above the forehead.
  4. Count consecutive taps without the balloon touching the ground as a fun team or pair target.
Coaching Points
  • Because the balloon moves slowly, use this time to correct footwork — players should be moving their feet to get under the balloon, not just reaching with their arms.
  • Keep platform arms flat and together on the forearm pass shape, even though a balloon doesn't require much power.
  • This is an ideal first-ever ball-control activity before introducing a real volleyball, and a great rainy-day or indoor option.
  • Keep it playful — the goal at this age is comfort and confidence with the motion, not perfect technique yet.

Variation

Progress to a soft foam trainer ball once the group is consistent with the balloon, using the exact same platform and footwork cues. For larger groups, form a circle and keep one balloon alive among everyone.

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