Can players go under the net in sitting volleyball?
I · Intermediate · Play · 3 of 4Players may go under the net into the opponents' space, even touching their court, if they do not interfere. A first-hit ball sent outside the antennae may be fetched and played back the same way; from a second or third hit it is out. A ball passing fully under the net is out.
How it works
- Under the net: allowed without interference.
- Opponents' court: may be touched.
- Antennae: mark the crossing space.
- First-hit ball outside: may be played back.
- Return path: outside the same side.
- Second or third hit outside: out.
- Under the net: out when fully across.
- Since 2025: aligned with the FIVB.
The glossary has the ball through the external space, the lower space, the penetration into the opponent's space, the antenna, the net (sitting volleyball) and the free zone (sitting volleyball).
Tricky cases
A player's legs touch the opponents' court. Fault?
No, without interference.
A second-hit ball goes round the antenna. Result?
Out.
A ball rolls under the net. When is it out?
When it has fully crossed.
Can a player enter the opponents' court after the rally?
Yes, once the ball is out of play.
Why the rule exists
Seated players' legs often cross under the net. Allowing it without interference keeps play natural.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| First hit outside | Playable back | 10.1.2 |
| Later hits outside | Out | 10.1.2 |
| Under the net | Allowed | 11.2 |
From the rule book
World ParaVolley, Official Sitting Volleyball Rules 2025-2028, rules 8.4, 10.1 and 11.2, with World ParaVolley, Approved Rule Changes 2025-2028, item 4. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World ParaVolley Official Sitting Volleyball Rules 2025-2028.