Paralympic Sport A-Z: Sitting volleyball

Sitting volleyball was introduced to the world at the Arnhem 1980 Paralympic Games.

It requires a smaller court (10m x 6m) and a lower net, and the game is considerably faster than standing volleyball. It’s played in a best-of-five set format, and the first to reach 25 points (with at least a 2-point lead) wins the game.

Teams consist of mixed classes in male and female events, with six on the court at a time. At all times, an athletes’ pelvis must be touching the ground, and service blocks are allowed.

At the London 2012 Games, 198 athletes competed in the sport.