Volleyball Uniform Rules
Volleyball uniforms are very different from those worn in other sports because they are often designed to be skin-tight, so as not to get in the way during this fast-paced, close-contact sport. The rules for uniforms at the high school and collegiate level differ somewhat as well.
- High School
The volleyball uniform consists of a top and bottom or sometime a one-piece. The top and bottom piece must be of like or coordinating colors. The uniform top must be skin tight, but cannot expose the midriff, and it must be long enough to be tucked into or hang below the waistband of the bottoms. Bottoms worn by high school players are usually spandex shorts or form-fitting pants, though teams may occasionally choose to wear skirts. For players who wish to wear something longer than the usually short uniform bottoms, an undergarment may show beneath the uniform, as long as it is a coordinating color.
All parts of the volleyball uniform must be free of buttons, zippers, snaps, fasteners, or anything else that is hard and could cause harm during play. A single manufacturer’s logo may be displayed on the uniform, as long as it is not larger than a 2 ¼ by 2 ¼ inch square. An American flag can also be included on the uniform, but must be no larger than 2 by 3 inches. Each player is also assigned a number, which cannot be repeated within a single team, and must be displayed on the upper front and back of the uniform.
While most players on the team are to wear the same uniform, the libero is the exception. This position is expected to wear a different uniform, of a contrasting color so that it stands out clearly on the court.
- Collegiate
Many elements of uniform required at the high school level remain the same for collegiate teams. Players must wear a uniform top and bottom, though at the college level they must be of a solid color. Each player must have a number displayed on the front and back of the jersey. At the collegiate level, teams may also have matching or coordinating socks. While the trim of a uniform shirt can be a different color than the uniform, the sleeves of the uniform shirt must be the same color as the rest of the uniform.
As at the high school level, undergarments may be worn and may be showing as long as they are of a coordinating color or black. Many collegiate teams include undergarment options as a part of the uniform, so that they coordinate well with the rest of the uniform.
The rules governing what the libero can wear at the collegiate level are nearly identical to the high school level rules. The libero’s uniform must be different than that of his or her teammates, as well as that of the opposing team. This is so that the libero stands out and is easily identified.
