Systems of play
Systems of play can be confusing particularly if you've only played one way before. There are other options, but it can prove confusing the first time. The documents below outline most principles of playing systems used.
Most beginners learn what is called a W+1 system with the setter in the middle at the front and the middle player at the back pushed up (6-up). This isn't the only arrangement possible and for higher standard teams where players specialise into certain roles this simple system is less common. Instead teams will specialise with one setter (called a 5-1 system) or two setters (6-2 or 4-2) and more often than not will play with middle back deep (6-back) and players switching to specialist locations. This is often combined with more dynamic player, quick hitting and maybe even specialist passers. Consequently systems can cause a great deal of frustration when you first come to them, but make sense when you know what they are trying to do.