Can a back-row player attack the ball in volleyball?

A back-row player may attack the ball from behind the 3-meter attack line. They may not complete an attack hit where the ball is entirely above the net if they took off from at or in front of the line.

Full Explanation

Per FIVB Rule 13.3.2, a back-row attack fault occurs when a back-row player (positions 1, 5, or 6) completes an attack hit while: (1) the ball is entirely above the height of the net, AND (2) the player's takeoff (jump) occurred from at or in front of the attack line (3-meter line). A back-row player may jump from behind the attack line, hit the ball above the net, and land in front of the line -- that is legal, because the takeoff was from behind the line. A back-row player may also attack below net height from anywhere. The libero faces a stricter rule: no attack hit above net height from any position (FIVB Rule 19.3.1.3).

Rulesets covered: FIVB  |  Rule Reference: FIVB Rule 13.3.2