Men’s Volleyball Recruiting Guidelines
What are college coaches looking for in men’s volleyball recruits? Learn about college men’s volleyball recruiting guidelines.
Every coach builds their roster differently, but most evaluate a mix of athletic measurables, technical skill, game IQ, and character.
These guidelines help athletes and families understand the typical expectations at different positions. Remember: they’re not strict cutoffs — standout skill or athleticism can outweigh numbers.
Outside Hitter / Opposite (OH/OPP)
- Height: 6’3”+ for D1; 6’0”+ for D2/NAIA
- Approach Touch: 10’0”+
- Key Skills:
- Ability to score out-of-system
- Consistency in serve receive (OH especially)
- Blocking vs. top attackers
- Shot variety and back-row attack
Middle Blocker (MB)
- Height: 6’5”+ for D1; 6’3”+ for D2/NAIA
- Approach/Block Touch: 10’4”+ preferred at higher levels
- Key Skills:
- Quick reads in transition
- Closing blocks with lateral speed
- Running quicks (1s, 31s, slides) at tempo
- Eye discipline against fast offenses
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Setter (S)
- Height: 6’0”+ preferred at D1
- Key Skills:
- Consistent, accurate setting across all rotations
- Ability to set tempo (quick to pins, fast middles)
- Decision-making and leadership
- Out-of-system setting ability
- Defense and blocking when front row
Libero / Defensive Specialist (L/DS)
- Height: 5’9”+ typical, but skill matters most
- Key Skills:
- Elite serve-receive consistency
- Platform angles and control against strong servers
- Digging high-velocity swings
- Communication and leadership in the back row
- Serve that applies pressure (float/jump float)
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General Academic Expectations
Athletics alone won’t secure opportunities. Coaches also look for:
- Strong GPA: 3.0+ makes you a more attractive recruit
- Test scores (if required): Competitive SAT/ACT can increase chances
- Eligibility: Must meet NCAA/NAIA academic standards
👉 Good academics expand your school options and help coaches stretch limited scholarship budgets.
Why These Guidelines Matter
- For athletes: Know where you realistically fit.
- For families: Avoid chasing only “big names” and target schools where your athlete matches positional needs.
- For coaches: These measurables help sort film quickly and identify athletes to track.