Volleyball · Level 5: Upper-Intermediate · Sub-level 5.4
Time-outs and Substitutions as Tools
10 tests · 100 facts · updated 25 October 2026 · markdown
When to call a time-out, stopping a run, icing the server, what is said in a time-out, saving time-outs, the serving specialist, blocking and defensive substitutes, a player in a slump, the video challenge and planning substitutions.
Each test below is ten questions on Insporta. The list under a test is what the questions check: one fact per question, with the source it was written from. Read it before the test, or come back from a wrong answer.
Test 1When to call a time-outTake a test
Two or three lost points is the usual signal.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A team playing well should keep its rhythm going.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A time-out is the chance to tell the team one key thing.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A pause helps nervous players reset.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
With only two per set, each must be used at the right moment.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
If the side-out works, the run may end without a pause.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A team in rhythm is the team about to go on a run.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Notice, decide, call and instruct.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Runs are the usual reason; after a won rally is rare.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Hands forming a T ask for a time-out.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Test 2Stopping a runTake a test
Waiting longer lets the run become a big gap.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Siding out is what ends the run.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Moving the passer the server keeps targeting can end the run.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
An error right after the pause keeps the run going.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
If the run continues, another pause may be needed.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Fresh players or a new formation can help end the run.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Winning the next rally ends the run.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Run, time-out, pass and side-out.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Words first, then a pause, then a pause with a change.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
A pause during a run aims to throw the server off her rhythm.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Test 3Icing the serverTake a test
The receiving side makes the server wait before her serve.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Making a server wait matters most at big moments.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A long wait at a big moment can build pressure.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A firm routine helps them ignore the wait.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Experienced servers often serve just as well after a wait.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
The time-out is used up and cannot be used later.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A player fresh off the bench may feel the pressure more.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Set point, ball, time-out and the delayed serve.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Experience helps a server ignore the wait.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
A time-out just before the serve is called icing the server.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Test 4What is said in a time-outTake a test
With seconds to speak, a prepared message is clearer.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A clear, small message is easiest to apply.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Drawing the change makes it clear at a glance.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A short recovery helps players listen and focus.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Calm words help nervous players settle.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Court leaders often add a word from the players' side.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
An instruction helps only if it is applied at once.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Drink, key point, team shout and back to play.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
One simple target is easiest; many changes are hardest.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
A single clear change is easiest to apply at once.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Test 5Saving time-outsTake a test
A substitution also pauses play and can change the rotation.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
An empty time-out count leaves the end to chance.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A gap that grows too large can lose the set early.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
The run-in from about 20 is when a time-out matters most.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
An opponent with no time-outs left cannot pause a run.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Even a leading team may need a pause if it starts to wobble.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A simple plan helps the coach use them well.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Watch, stop a run, save one and use it late.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
The closer to the end, the more a pause is worth.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
An early single point lost is no reason to use a time-out.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Test 6The serving specialistTake a test
Until the serve is lost she stays in the back row and defends.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
The specialist serves instead of a teammate with a weaker serve.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Break points late in the set can be won from the service line.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Often a middle who will soon rotate out for the libero anyway.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Once the serve is lost, the starter usually comes back.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A strong serve is why they come on.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Serving well straight off the bench needs a warm arm.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Warm up, come on, serve and go off.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
The weaker her serve, the more likely the swap.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
A player brought on mainly to serve is a serving specialist.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Test 7Blocking and defensive substitutesTake a test
A short setter is a weak spot in the block.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
She comes on for her height at the net.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A defensive specialist replaces a weaker passer in the back row.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A better passer helps the side-out in that rotation.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Once the setter is in the back row, her block is no longer needed.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Specialists can strengthen a weak spot in a rotation.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Each set allows a limited number of substitutions.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Front row, sub on, three rotations and back.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Blockers at the net; the others defend in the back.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
A tall player in front strengthens the block.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Test 8A player in a slumpTake a test
Drooping shoulders or anger can mean the next error is coming.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A calm word helps her come back ready.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A fresh player can lift the team.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A short break is often enough to settle her.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Some players play better when the coach shows faith in them.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A player who stops swinging freely may need help.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Everyone makes errors; a pattern is what matters.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Notice, change, talk and return.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
A word first, fewer sets next, a rest last.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
A calm talk helps a struggling player recover.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Test 9The video challengeTake a test
The review is shown so everyone can see the decision.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Challenges are limited, so they are saved for important calls.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A team has only a few challenges, and a failed one may be lost.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Ball in or out, block touches and net touches are common checks.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Like a time-out, a review stops the flow of play.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Players near the ball tell the bench what they saw.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A failed challenge leaves the call as it was.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Call, request, review and decision.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Close calls at big moments are worth the most.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Asking for a replay review is a video challenge.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Test 10Planning substitutionsTake a test
Each bench player knows the moments she may be used.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Knowing the swap in advance avoids confusion.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A player who knows when she will play can prepare.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A back-up for each position keeps the team complete.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Specialists can be used against the opponents' strengths.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
An assistant keeps count and reminds the coach.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
A plan is a guide; the match may call for other moves.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · recall
Study, choose, tell and adjust.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Serving swaps are common; a back-up setter is rare.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Planning substitutions makes them quick and clear in the match.
Source: FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references · applied
Sources
FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II) and general coaching references; original questions authored, nothing reproduced. Numbered FIVB rules belong to the Rules category.
- FIVB Coaches Manual (Levels I-II), general coaching references100