Can a player reach over the net to block in volleyball?
Yes, but only after the opponent's attack hit. A blocker may reach beyond the net but may not touch the ball on the opponent's side before the opponent's attack hit or otherwise interfere with the opponent's play. Doing so is a fault.
Full Explanation
Per FIVB Rule 14.3, in blocking a player may place hands and arms beyond the net provided this does not interfere with the opponent's play, so it is not permitted to touch the ball beyond the net before an opponent has executed an attack hit. Touching the ball in the opponent's space before the opponent's attack hit is a blocking fault (FIVB Rule 14.6.1) and gives the opponent a point. Blockers must also avoid touching the net between the antennae during the block action (FIVB Rule 11.3.1). USAV and NCAA apply the same principle. Under NCAA rules, a block made at the same instant as the attack hit on the opponent's side is a blocking fault, while USAV does not treat simultaneous contact as a fault. NFHS permits blocking a ball entirely on the opponent's side once the opponent has had an opportunity to complete its attack, for example after its third hit or when, in the referee's judgment, no attacker could play the ball.
Rulesets covered: FIVB/USAV/NFHS/NCAA | Rule Reference: FIVB Rule 14.3; FIVB Rule 14.6.1; FIVB Rule 11.3.1
Primary sources:
- Official Volleyball Rules 2025-2028 (FIVB)
- 2025-27 USAV Indoor Rulebook (USA Volleyball)
- NFHS Volleyball Rules (National Federation of State High School Associations)
- NCAA Women's Volleyball Rules Book (NCAA Publications)
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