League Rules & Regulations

Adapted under USA Volleyball (USAV) – RVA Guidelines

For the full official rules, see the USAV Rules of Volleyball

House League Rules

1. Rally scoring to 25 points (win by 2).

• Best 2 out of 3 matches. 
• Deciding set (3rd) to 15 points (win by 2).   
• Game will go to Golden Ball if time is short. In this case the team with the higher points will win the round.

2. Each team is allowed 3 contacts to return the ball.

3. Block touch does NOT count as a contact.

4. A player may not reach over the net to attack the ball on the opponent’s side.

5. Ball must cross over or between the antennae.

6. No blocking the serve.

7. Interfering with the opponent’s play over or under the net is a violation.

8. Maximum 12 substitutions per set.

• Players must enter in the same rotational position each time. 

9. No abusive language, intimidation, or unsporting behavior.

10. Arguing calls may result in warnings, penalties, or expulsion.

11. Only the captain may formally address the referee.

12. Grace period before a forfeit is called is 10 minutes (warm up time only).

• Teams must have 4 rostered players present to prevent forfeits.
• We will not grant additional warm up time past the first 10 minutes if a team member is late. 
• The team player that is late and still needs to warm up can warm up outside of the game while their team plays.

13. Honesty is essential in our community. If you touched the net, claim it. We strive to keep a good community full of fun and fairness. As we are a self-reffing league, the ref may not catch all violations but the other team may. 

Recreational League

A league focused on fun and foundational play.

Rules:

• Net Touching: Players may not touch the net during play.

• Serving: Serves must be made from behind the end line.

  
  

Lower Intermediate

For those who want more structure, without going fully competitive.

Includes all Recreational rules, plus:

• No Lifting or Carrying: The ball must be played cleanly with no prolonged contact.

• Back Line Spiking: Back-row players may not spike in front of the 10-foot (attack) line.

• Back Row Attacking: Back-row players may not jump and attack a ball above the net if they take off from inside the 10-foot line.

  
  

Intermediate League

Full competitive play for experienced players.

Includes all Recreational & Lower Intermediate rules, plus:

• All standard USAV rules are in effect (e.g. rotations, substitutions, blocking, ball handling, etc.).

• Players and captains should refer to the official USAV rules for any situations not specifically covered above.