Match play mandated
The Kansas State High School Athletic Association (KSHSAA) has mandated that beginning this fall all volleyball matches played at every level of competition use rally scoring.
In effect, that means every time the ball is served, one side or the other will score. If a team serves the ball and it is returned, but they fail to redeliver it to the other side, it will count as a point for their opponent. The team will suffer "loss of rally."
In addition, a served ball that hits the net, then goes over, will be regarded as a playable ball as long as it doesn't hit the antennae. This is called a "let serve."
In multiple competitions such as double duals, tri's, quads, and tournaments, the match winner must win two out of three, as in the past. However, the first two games will be played to 25 points, rather than 15. The third game will be played to 15 points
These same rules will apply to junior high, middle school, junior varsity matches, and post-season tournaments.
In single duals, where only one match is played, the winner must win three out of five, the first four games played to 25 points, the final one to 15.
All game victories must be by two points. Therefore, in close give-and-take matches, the final numbers could be greater than the 25 or 15 points.
Rally scoring was mandated by federal officials to take effect in the 2004-2005 school season. However, KSHSAA officials decided to institute it one year early for several reasons: 1) to see how playing time is affected, for future scheduling purposes; 2) to train officials and scorekeepers; 3) to allow exposure and adjustment by players and coaches; and 4) to determine match times as they relate to officials' fees.
