5 Best Volleyball Books to Read Now

Are you a volleyball player, coach, or enthusiast looking to expand your knowledge and skills on the court? Look no further than these top-notch volleyball books. From the history of volleyball literature to skill-building drills, these books cover it all. Let’s dive into some of the best volleyball books to add to your reading list.

5 Best Volleyball Books to Read Now

The History of Volleyball Literature

Before we get into the top volleyball books of today, let’s take a look back at the early years of volleyball writing. Early volleyball books and manuals were published in the late 1800s and early 1900s, coinciding with the sport’s creation. Many of these books focused on the rules and regulations of the game, as well as basic techniques. As the sport grew in popularity, so did the diversity of volleyball writing. Now, there are countless books on volleyball strategies, skills, and culture.

One of the earliest volleyball books, “The Volley Ball: Its Construction and Use,” was written by William G. Morgan, the inventor of the sport. Published in 1896, the book provided a detailed explanation of the game’s rules and how to play it. It also included illustrations of the court and net, as well as diagrams of different plays and formations.

Early Volleyball Books and Manuals

If you’re curious about the first volleyball books, check out “Volleyball: How to Play and Coach” by Allen Scates, a comprehensive guide to the sport’s early days. Scates, a former US national team player and coach, provides a detailed overview of the history of volleyball, as well as tips on how to improve your skills and strategy.

“How to Play Better Volleyball” by Billie Jean King and Kim Oden provides valuable insight into the mindset and approach of elite players. King, a legendary tennis player and volleyball enthusiast, teamed up with Oden, a former US national team player, to write a book that focuses on the mental and emotional aspects of the game. The book includes tips on how to stay focused, deal with pressure, and communicate effectively with teammates.

The Evolution of Volleyball Writing

The Volleyball Coaching Bible, Volume II

As volleyball evolved, so did the writing surrounding it. “Essential Volleyball: A Guide to Mastering the Fundamentals” by Debby Colberg provides clarity on the fundamentals of the game, while “The Volleyball Coaching Bible” by American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) showcases experienced coaches’ advice and reflections.

“Essential Volleyball” covers everything from basic skills like serving and passing to more advanced techniques like blocking and attacking. The book also includes drills and exercises to help players improve their game. “The Volleyball Coaching Bible” features contributions from over 30 coaches, including Olympic gold medalists and NCAA champions. The book covers a wide range of topics, from practice planning and game strategy to team building and leadership.

Overall, the world of volleyball literature has come a long way since the sport’s early days. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player or coach, there’s a book out there that can help you improve your skills and deepen your understanding of the game.

Top Volleyball Biographies and Memoirs

Volleyball’s rich history is filled with inspiring players and coaches who have left their mark on the sport. These biographies and memoirs offer an intimate look at the individuals who have shaped volleyball into what it is today.

Inspirational Stories from Volleyball Legends

The Miracle Season

One of the most inspiring stories in the world of volleyball is “The Miracle Season: The Inside Story of the 1990 V.B. State Champs” by Kathy Bresnahan. This book tells the story of a high school girls’ volleyball team that came together after tragedy to win it all. The team’s star player, Caroline Found, was killed in a car accident just before the start of the season. Despite the overwhelming grief, the team rallied around each other and Caroline’s memory to win the state championship. This book is a testament to the power of teamwork and perseverance.

If you’re interested in learning from some of the sport’s best coaches, “The Art of Coaching Volleyball” by Mark Barnard is a must-read. This book offers insights and expertise from some of the most successful coaches in the game. You’ll learn about coaching strategies, team building, and how to create a winning culture. Whether you’re a player, coach, or fan, this book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their understanding of the game.

Behind-the-Scenes Perspectives from Coaches and Players

Coaching Volleyball Successfully (Coaching Successfully Series)

If you’re interested in learning about the nuts and bolts of volleyball, “My Volleyball Journey: The Sports Illustrated Kids Edition” by Carli Lloyd is a great place to start. Lloyd, an Olympic gold medalist, shares her journey as a volleyball player, from her early days to her rise to the top. Along the way, she offers tips and advice for young players looking to improve their skills and reach their full potential.

For a coach’s perspective, “Coaching Volleyball Successfully” by Sally Kus is a complete guide to coaching volleyball teams of any level. Kus draws on her years of experience as a coach and player to offer practical advice on everything from practice planning to game strategy. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or just starting out, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their coaching skills.

These biographies and memoirs offer a glimpse into the world of volleyball and the people who have dedicated their lives to the sport. Whether you’re a player, coach, or fan, these books are sure to inspire and inform.

Essential Volleyball Coaching Books

As volleyball coaches, we are always looking for ways to improve our skills and strategies. These books offer valuable insight into the best coaching practices for success on and off the court.

Strategies and Techniques for Success

“Winning Volleyball: Fundamentals, Tactics, and Strategy” by Joel Dearing breaks down the game’s elements, providing specific drills and exercises to reinforce key volleyball lessons. This book is an essential read for coaches looking to improve their team’s performance on the court. The author, Joel Dearing, is a highly respected volleyball coach with over 30 years of experience. He has coached at the high school, college, and professional levels, and his expertise shines through in this comprehensive guide to the sport.

“From Coach to Coach: Real Stories, Powerful Lessons” by John Forman is a collection of stories from experts in the field, providing a unique perspective on the ins and outs of the volleyball coaching profession. This book offers valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of coaching, as well as practical advice on how to motivate and inspire your team. Whether you are a seasoned coach or just starting out, this book is an essential addition to your coaching library.

Building a Winning Team Culture

The Culture Code: The Secrets of Highly Successful Groups

The Culture Code: The Secrets of Highly Successful Groups” by Daniel Coyle is a must-read for any coach looking to build a cohesive, highly functioning team. Coyle identifies common traits of successful teams, providing insight on how to create a winning culture from the ground up. This book is not just about volleyball, but about building successful teams in any field. Coyle draws on examples from a wide range of industries, from sports to business to the military, to illustrate his points.

Another book that is worth reading is “Legacy” by James Kerr. This book tells the story of the New Zealand All Blacks, one of the most successful rugby teams in history. The All Blacks have a winning culture that is based on respect, humility, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Kerr examines the team’s culture and provides practical advice on how to apply their principles to your own team. This book is a must-read for any coach who wants to build a winning team culture.

Overall, these books offer valuable insights into the world of volleyball coaching. Whether you are looking to improve your team’s performance on the court or build a winning team culture, these books are an essential addition to your coaching library.

Volleyball Skills and Drills Books

If you’re a volleyball enthusiast looking to refine and improve your skills, these books offer comprehensive guidance and drills to follow. Volleyball is a sport that requires a combination of physical fitness, mental toughness, and technical mastery. With these books, you can take your game to the next level and become a better player.

Mastering the Fundamentals

Volleyball Skills & Drills

Volleyball Skills and Drills” by American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) is an excellent resource for beginners and intermediate players. It offers step-by-step instructions on mastering the basic techniques of volleyball, from serving to hitting. The book covers all the essential skills required to play the game, including passing, setting, blocking, and digging. It also includes drills that will help you improve your footwork, timing, and coordination. With this book, you’ll be able to develop a solid foundation in volleyball and build your confidence on the court.

The Volleyball Handbook” by Bob Miller is another great resource for players who want to improve their skills and knowledge of the game. This book provides a comprehensive guide to the sport’s rules, strategies, and techniques. It covers everything from the history of volleyball to the latest trends in the sport. The book includes detailed explanations of the different positions on the court, as well as tips on how to communicate effectively with your teammates. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this book is an essential resource for anyone who wants to master the game of volleyball.

Advanced Techniques for Experienced Players

If you’re an experienced player looking to up your game, check out “Advanced Volleyball” by Cecile Reynaud. This book goes beyond the sport’s basics, providing insight into advanced techniques such as zone serving and block-defensive systems. The book also covers strategies for attacking and defending against different types of serves, as well as tips on how to read your opponent’s movements and anticipate their next move. With this book, you’ll be able to take your game to the next level and compete at a higher level.

Overall, these books are excellent resources for anyone who wants to improve their volleyball skills and knowledge of the game. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there’s something for everyone in these books. So, pick up a copy today and start improving your game!

Fictional Volleyball Stories

If you’re looking for a fun and engaging read, these novels and movies about volleyball are sure to entertain.

Novels Featuring Volleyball Players and Teams

“Blocker, Corp.” by Soliman Cruz provides a fictional take on the volleyball world, following a team’s journey towards the top. “The Volleyball Diaries” by Matt Christopher follows a group of young players as they navigate school and volleyball.

Inspiring and Entertaining Volleyball Movies and TV Shows

If you’re more of a visual learner, movies like “Side Out” or TV shows like “Haikyuu!!” showcase the excitement and passion of volleyball. These visual experiences may inspire you to hit the gym or the court and start practicing.

In conclusion, these are just a few examples of the best volleyball books out there. From the history of volleyball literature to fictional stories, there is something for everyone. So grab a book and start reading – you never know what you might learn.

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Eddison Monroe
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