How to Play Effectively With Your Volleyball Partner

"Chemistry is a major part of success in any team sport, so look for that first in a volleyball partner," says Rob Heidger, pro beach volleyball player.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Volleyball Boundary Sets
• Volleyball Net Systems
• Volleyballs

1. Analyze your own strengths and weaknesses.
2. Find a partner who balances you out.
3. Select a partner who has the same goals as you for practicing, playing and/or partying.
4. Communicate on the court to keep each other clued in.
5. Partner with a friend with whom you enjoy spending lots of time.
6. Continually evaluate your team chemistry and goals to see whether you need to address any issues and make any changes.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're a great blocker but not great defensively, then it's a good idea to have a partner who is quick and can dig.
• If you are a great setter with a weak vertical leap, find a partner who can jump like a gazelle and hits with fury.
• Heidger and his teammate Kevin Wong are the No. 1 ranked U.S. Men's Doubles Team in beach volleyball. They competed together in the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia.