What can a Libero do in sitting volleyball?
I · Intermediate · Court and teams · 1 of 4A team may name up to two Liberos, defensive players in a contrasting shirt; only one is on court at a time. The Libero replaces any back-row player, without counting as a substitution, but may not serve, block or attack a ball entirely above the net. A Libero's overhand finger pass in the front zone cannot be attacked from above net height.
How it works
- Number: none, one or two.
- On court: one at a time.
- Replaces: any back-row player.
- Not a substitution: unlimited replacements.
- Rally between: needed before the next.
- Cannot: serve, block or attack above the net.
- Front-zone overhand pass: cannot be attacked high.
- Injured Libero: may be re-designated.
The glossary has the Libero (sitting volleyball), the acting Libero, the Libero replacement (sitting volleyball), the Libero overhand finger pass, the re-designated Libero and the Libero replacement zone.
Tricky cases
Can a Libero serve?
No.
Is a Libero swap a substitution?
No.
The only Libero is injured. What then?
The coach may re-designate another player.
Can a Libero's back-court overhand pass be attacked?
Yes.
Why the rule exists
The Libero adds a defensive specialist without letting them dominate attack.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement | Unlimited | 19.3.2 |
| Front zone pass | No high attack | 19.3.1.4 |
| Injury | Re-designation | 19.4 |
From the rule book
World ParaVolley, Official Sitting Volleyball Rules 2025-2028, rule 19, with World ParaVolley, Approved Rule Changes 2025-2028. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World ParaVolley Official Sitting Volleyball Rules 2025-2028.