An outside hitter in volleyball is the attacker who hits from the left side of the court. Also called the left-side hitter or “OH”, the outside hitter usually takes more swings than anyone else on the team, passes serves with the libero, blocks the opponent’s right-side attackers and plays defense in the back row. It’s the most all-round position in volleyball.
What does an outside hitter do?
| Job | What it involves |
|---|---|
| Attack | Hits from the left side (zone 4). Outside hitters get the most sets, especially when the pass is off target and the setter needs a reliable option |
| Serve receive | Passes serves alongside the libero, so the setter can run the offense |
| Block | Blocks the opponent’s right-side hitters (opposites and right-side attacks) |
| Defense | Digs in the back row, usually in left back |
| Back-row attack | At higher levels, attacks from the back row, often a “pipe” set in the middle of the court |
US Sports Camps’ guide for parents calls the outside hitter often the focal point of the offense, the player coaches trust when a play breaks down. That’s why the position needs both attacking and ball-control skills. See all volleyball positions explained.
Where outside hitters play in the rotation
Most teams use two outside hitters, placed opposite each other in the rotation, so one is always in the front row. When an outside hitter is in the front row, they attack and block from the left; in the back row, they pass and play defense. In many systems, the libero replaces the middle blockers in the back row, while outside hitters stay on the court for all six rotations.
Back-row attacks have a rule attached. Under the FIVB rules, a back-row player who attacks a ball completely above the net must take off from behind the attack line (the 3-meter or 10-foot line), though they may land in front of it.
Sets an outside hitter hits
Names vary between teams and coaches, but these are the common sets for an outside hitter:
| Set | What it is |
|---|---|
| High ball (often called a “4”) | A high set to the left antenna. Slower, so the hitter has time, but the block has time to form too |
| Go (quick outside) | A faster, lower set to the left antenna, so the hitter beats the block |
| Pipe | A back-row set in the middle of the court, hit from behind the attack line |
| Out-of-system set | Any set from a bad pass, often from a non-setter. Outside hitters see these the most |
Outside hitter vs. opposite vs. middle blocker
| Outside hitter | Opposite | Middle blocker | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attacks from | Left side | Right side | Middle |
| Passes serves? | Yes, usually | Usually not | Usually not |
| Main blocking job | Opponent’s right side | Opponent’s outside hitter | Across the whole net |
| Back row | Stays in to play defense | Stays in | Often replaced by the libero |
| Typical hitting % | Lower; most swings, often against a set block | In between | Highest; fewer, cleaner sets |
That last row matters when you compare stats. An analysis of NCAA Division I men’s stats by Dartmouth Sports Analytics found the best middles hitting above .333, while even the top outside hitters were mostly in the .200s. Work out your own with our volleyball hitting percentage calculator.
Skills a good outside hitter needs
- A range of shots: hard line and cross-court swings, a sharp cut shot, tips and roll shots, and hitting off the block (a “tool”) to score when the block is up.
- Passing: a reliable forearm pass in serve receive. Many young hitters find this the hardest part of the job.
- A consistent approach: the same footwork every time, so you can adjust to good and bad sets.
- Transition: blocking, then getting off the net quickly to approach for the next attack.
- Composure: outside hitters get the ball in the hardest situations, so they need to stay aggressive without making errors.
For drills, see our guide to drills for volleyball hitters. A volleyball rebounder lets you add passing and arm-swing reps at home.
Is outside hitter the right position for you?
Outside hitter suits players who like being involved in every rally and want to both attack and pass. Height helps for hitting over the block, but passing, shot variety and consistency matter as much. If you’re shorter, you can still play outside, especially at younger levels; see volleyball positions for shorter players and which volleyball position should I play?.
Gear for outside hitters
Outside hitters jump, land, pass and dive more than most players, so a few pieces of gear matter:
- Shoes with jump cushioning and stability: see the best volleyball shoes for jumping and the best volleyball shoes by position.
- Knee pads for back-row defense: see the best volleyball knee pads.
- Ankle braces, since most ankle sprains happen at the net when landing: see the best ankle braces for volleyball.
Frequently asked questions
Is outside hitter the hardest position in volleyball?
It’s one of the most demanding, because outside hitters have to attack, pass, block and defend. It’s the most all-round position, while the setter has the most decisions to make.
Why is it called outside hitter?
Because the player attacks from the outside of the net, at the left antenna. The right-side attacker is called the opposite because they line up opposite the setter in the rotation.
Do outside hitters play back row?
Usually, yes. Unlike middle blockers, who are often replaced by the libero, outside hitters typically stay on the court for all six rotations and pass and defend in the back row.
What’s the difference between an outside hitter and a left-side hitter?
Nothing; they’re two names for the same position. You’ll also see “OH” and “pin hitter”, a term that covers both outside and opposite hitters, since both hit near the antennas.
How many outside hitters are on the court?
Two, in most systems. They’re placed opposite each other in the rotation, so one is in the front row at all times.