Why are hand signals important in volleyball? Referees use several hand signals during a volleyball game. The hand signals are given by the referee who first signals the fault and then indicates which team has won the point. A point is indicated by one finger at the side of the court to indicate the winner of the rally.
T he first referee can sanction a team or individual. The second referee may request a sanction, but it is the first referee that decides. Signal the next team to serve first before showing the card. Hold up card/s in the hand on the side of the team member being sanctioned. Avoid “pushing” the card at the individual. Sanctions
After the 2 nd referee makes the substitution hand signal, he makes a signal for the player to enter the court. This is done only after players have made eye contact. Extend the arm and at thigh level, make a forward sweeping motion with the palm facing forward. The first referee doesn’t repeat this signal. Authorization to enter
Place the palm of one hand over the fingers of the other, held vertically (forming a “T”) and then indicate the requesting team. Time Out
Raise the forearms front and back and twist them around the body. Change of Courts
At the end of the match, direct the teams to the end lines without whistling. Extend your arms with hands open. Next, whistle and bring hands together above the net to have teams shake hands. End of Match
Circular motion of the forearms around each other. Substitutions
Move the hand to indicate the direction of service. Authorization to serve
Extend the arm to the side of the team that will serve. Team to serve
Raise eight fingers, spread open. Delay in Service
Point the arm and fingers toward the floor. Ball In
Raise the forearms vertically, hands open, palms toward the body. Ball Out
Raise two fingers, spread open. Double Contact
Make a circular motion with the forefinger. Positional or Rotational Fault
Slowly lift the forearm, palm of the hand facing upwards. Catch
Raise four fingers, spread open. Four Hits
Raise both thumbs vertically. Double Fault and Replay
Brush with the palm of one hand the fingers of the other, held vertically. Ball Touched
Whistle Reward Nature of Fault Sequence in Calling the Fault