Fun Volleyball Serving Games and Drills
Volleyball is best learned through game-like situations. That being said, serving practice can sometimes feel repetitive or low-energy. That’s where fun serving games come in! These drills are great for rewarding effort, bringing energy back into a practice, and building confidence under pressure. Use them sparingly and at the right moments for maximum impact!
Serving Games
If you've been coaching for a while, you might already know these. But if you're new to coaching, get ready to add two simple, fun, and effective serving games to your toolbox!
Dead Fish
A classic serving game that adds pressure and fun all at once. Here’s how it works:
Split your players into two even teams (ex: 5 vs. 5) and send them to opposite serving lines.
Each player serves one at a time (or let them serve as soon as they have a ball for a faster pace).
If they make their serve, they go to the end of the line on their side.
If they miss (out or in the net), they have to lay down on the opposite side—they're now a "dead fish."
To get back in the game, their teammates have to hit them with a serve. Dead fish players must keep their butts on the ground and stay in one spot (no scooting!).
This game is great for:
Adding pressure when a team is down.
Building confidence in targeting specific zones.
Keeping serving fun!
Game Variations
Instead of taking turns, let all players serve as soon as they get a ball—great for younger players with shorter attention spans!
Adjust the game length by setting a time limit or a "last player standing" rule.
📖 Read More: Fix a Volleyball Serve in 4 Steps
The Candy Game
This one is simple but so effective. You’ll need a few hula hoops and some candy!
Set up 3+ hula hoops in different target zones on one side of the court.
Players line up and take turns serving toward the hoops.
If their serve lands in or hits the hoop, they get a piece of candy!
Rotate players and move hoops occasionally to keep it challenging.
Keep cheering & encouragement high! If a player struggles, let teammates move a hoop closer to their sweet spot.
This game works best at the end of practice because:
Players go all out for the candy motivation!
It keeps energy levels up and ends practice on a positive note.
A little teasing ("Mmm, this candy is so good!") makes it extra fun.
Candy Game Pro Tips
Check for allergies! Peanut-free candy is the safest bet.
Get parent approval first. Send a quick email to keep it a surprise and avoid any issues.
Choose braces-friendly candy. No sticky taffy or Starbursts! Try Smarties or chocolate instead.
Individually wrapped candy is a must—no sweaty hands in a big bowl of M&Ms!
Want More Fun & Effective Drills?
Check out the "10 Volleyball Drills I Use in ALMOST Every Private Lesson" printable! It’s packed with go-to drills that are easy to implement and effective.
Have you played these games at your practices? Got another favorite serving game? Let me know in the comments!
