Development of a Notational Analysis System to Evaluate Setting Performance in Volleyball

• Main Author: Mortensen, Nina Puikkonen
• Format: Others
• Published: BYU ScholarsArchive 2007
• Subjects: notational analysis; volleyball; setting; Exercise Science
• Online Access: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/etd/950; https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1949&context=etd

The purposes of this study were to develop a notational analysis system to evaluate volleyball setting performance independent of the actions of the hitter and to use the data to develop a Markovian transitional matrix that would make known the probabilities of specific outcomes from each setting scenario. Setting performance was analyzed based on the sets distance from the net, height of the set, and position of the set in relation to the hitter as viewed from 13 filmed competitions of a Division I intercollegiate women's volleyball team. Data from the notation of 1353 sets were used to develop a Markovian transitional matrix. The data indicated that 25 different setting scenarios occurred. Overall, sets within 3-5 feet from the net resulted in the highest probability of a point and the lowest probability of a point for the opponent. Low sets, whether inside or outside in relation to the hitter also resulted in a high probability of winning a point. High sets, whether inside or outside in relation to the hitter, resulted in the lowest probability of success and the highest probability of a point for the opponent. A notational analysis system such as described in this study can effectively be used by coaches to evaluate setting performance, provide effective feedback, develop team strategies and style of play, and allocate practice time.