What happens if the ball hits the net on a serve?
If the served ball hits the net and still crosses into the opponent's court, the serve is legal and play continues. This is called a let serve or net serve. If the serve hits the net and does not cross, it is a service fault and the opponent scores.
Full Explanation
A let serve (also called a net serve) occurs when the served ball contacts the net, including the top band, and continues over into the receiving team's court. Per FIVB Rule 10.2, the ball may touch the net while crossing it, so a let serve is legal and play continues normally. If the serve contacts the net and fails to cross to the opponent's side, or crosses outside the antennae, it is a service fault per FIVB Rule 12.6.2.1, and the opponent is awarded a point and the serve. Under USAV, NFHS, and NCAA rules, the let serve is also legal. Receivers must be prepared to play a let serve, since it can drop unpredictably near the net.
Rulesets covered: FIVB/USAV/NFHS/NCAA | Rule Reference: FIVB Rule 10.2; FIVB Rule 12.6.2.1; USAV Rule 12.6.2.1; NFHS Rule 8-1-1; NCAA Rule 13.2.1.1.3
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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