Last Updated: February 13, 2024
There are many reasons why the libero is such a special position in volleyball. Most commonly, the libero is easy to notice because they wear a differently colored uniform. That’s because they can enter or exit the game whenever they feel like it, without counting as a substitution.
The specialized position goes somewhere at the back. Whoever does it will most likely pass and dig a lot of balls. While a libero is considered a defensive specialist, the truth is these are two different positions with crystal-clear differences, as well as some areas where they overlap each other.
Now, what does the libero actually do, and what makes it so special?
Passing vs. Defending
The truth is a libero will do both. Now, if you think about it, a lot of volleyball players can actually defend very well. They can tackle a serve without too much hassle. But where does the ball go after?
Exactly! While pretty much everyone can defend to a certain level, not everyone can pass while doing it. That’s the secret of a libero. While the libero is a defensive position, the truth is their passing abilities tend to make the difference.
Indeed, an amazing dig can make the fans cheer. It’s spectacular and nice. But at the end of the day, passing a three ball would give your team a better advantage. Consistency is critical as well and a massive role for a libero.
The Hustling Side
Compared to other positions, despite being a defensive position, the libero has plenty of freedom and not just for going in or out whenever they need to.
With these thoughts in mind, a libero requires plenty of energy and stamina. They’ll be all over the court in the back half. Your position implies hustling to cover your hitters, but you also need to be ready to take balls from opponent hitters.
It’s a constant run, and two games will never be the same. You’re always in action. You need to save a block, chase a pass, get the tip up, you name it. Your role may also imply hustling to reach a ball that no one goes after.
In other words, the libero is supposed to be a role model, too. When you go for such a ball, you tell your teammates that they should’ve chased it. The hustle in this position is an example that teammates will most likely start following.
All this hustle is about work ethic, which tends to be contagious.
A Leading Attitude
The hustle isn’t always about winning balls and serving your teammates, but also about proving a point. Simply put, the libero can often be considered a leader. It makes no difference if you’ve just started with this position or you’re one of the team’s veterans.
The libero position itself is associated with a leader’s role. The libero is around most of the time and can control the energy. You’ll be able to help hitters by pointing out open spots. You can also communicate and let everyone know what’s going on here and there, since your field of view is wider.
Recommended: How to Shine as a Libero: Advanced Techniques and Strategies
No matter how talented and skilled you are in this position, a vocal libero will always have a major advantage. Like for any other team based sport, communication makes the difference.
The Engine of the Team
Just because you have a bit of freedom to move around doesn’t mean there are no restrictions whatsoever. In fact, there are quite a few of them, but you need to use them to your advantage.
For example, you’re not allowed to jump above the net. You can’t attack a ball either. But then, you can certainly push your teammates from behind if you act like an engine.
There’s a very fine line between skill, talent and dedication. More and more coaches seem to appreciate hard work and dedication. For instance, it’s useless to be talented if you’re lazy. Therefore, coaches are after people who can spill amazing energy on the court.
The libero is supposed to be that player who everyone wants in their team. As the engine of your team, you should cheer with teammates, appreciate their efforts, recognize their work, and motivate them.
Always Room for More
You can’t be a libero if you’re not willing to give your all. It’s a competitive position, not suitable for everyone. You’ll also be competing against another similar position, the defensive specialist.
To keep it simple, as a libero, you’ll be the hardest working player. You must separate yourself, while keeping everyone around you as a team. This means you need to hustle, offer good energy, and become a leader.
Some games will be easier than others. No matter how hard a game is, you need to remember that there’s always room for more, so the hustle is even deeper. And on the same note, even if a game looks simple, there are always ways to improve it.
Main Attributes and Skills for a Libero
There are a few attributes you need to insist on during your training drills.
- Digging – This ability is critical in the back defense line.
- Passing – Saving isn’t everything if you can’t turn it into an offensive pass at the same time.
- Consistency – No matter where you are or what you run after, consistency means your teammates will know what to expect from you at all times.
- Ball handling – Going hand in hand with passing and saving, handling adds to your versatility on the court.
- Speed – You need to be quick, as you’ll spend most of the game running.
Also Read: How Has the Libero Position Evolved
Conclusion
The libero is a challenging position, definitely not suitable for everyone. While many of the aspects related to it can be trained, there are certain factors that you should be born with, such as your leadership attitude.
You must be ready to lead by example and keep going at all times, regardless of the direction of the game.