By: Alex Martinez

Introduction

This physical education unit introduces the sport of sitting volleyball to students of all abilities and skills. The unit includes drills and activities for teaching proper execution of sitting volleyball basic fundamentals. The unit also features general adaptations to ensure the inclusion of students with disabilities, tips to modify equipment and class and student assessment.

Picture #1: Students playing six-on-six on a mini-short court

Photo courtesty of Get Set 4 All, Inc.

History

Sitting volleyball originated in the Netherlands in 1956.  After entering as a “demonstration” sport during the 1976 Paralympic Games in Toronto, Canada, Sitting volleyball was first included in competition at the 1980 Paralympic Games in Arnhem, Netherlands. It has been in every Paralympic Games since.  In 1984, the United States participated in its first Paralympic Games in New York City. In the 2004 Paralympics, held in Athens, Greece, the United States  Men's Team finished 6th, and the United States Women's Team finished 3rd, taking home a bronze medal. Both finishes were the best ever for United States.