Good Right Side Defense

One of the points Penn State coaches emphasized with their diggers during early-season training is protecting the right sideline by getting around the ball.

Salima Rockwell, the Nittany Lions’ associate head coach, demonstrates good digging form in this video – taking a big step in the direction of the ball to keep her shoulders around the ball and her platform facing the target area.

In the video, Penn State coach Russ Rose rips balls at setter Bryanna Weiskircher. After one hit, Rockwell tells her that she isn’t stepping to the ball but, rather, is leaning and using only her arms. Rockwell demonstrates the form she’s looking for, and Weiskircher then steps in and nails a couple of nice digs.