Opposite hitter
The opposite hitter, often called the right side hitter, attacks from the right side of the court and is typically matched up against the other team’s outside hitter. The opposite is a major offensive and blocking role, and on many teams it is one of the primary point scorers.
On Everything Volleyball, “opposite hitter” is an entity because it is a position that families often misunderstand. People sometimes assume the opposite is just “another hitter.” In reality, the role is defined by matchups, blocking responsibilities, and how the team runs its offense.
What the opposite hitter does during a rally
Opposites attack from the right side pin. That includes front row swings on the right and, at higher levels, back row attacks when they rotate to the back court.
A big part of the job is blocking. Opposites often block against the opponent’s outside hitter, who is usually one of the strongest attackers. That means the opposite needs to be ready for a lot of high pressure blocking reps.
Opposites also help the offense in out of system situations. When the pass is off the net and the setter has limited options, the ball often goes high to the pins. The opposite can be a reliable option in those moments, especially because the right side attack can create different angles and stress the block in a different way than the left side.
In some team systems, opposites are also involved in setting when the setter plays defense and takes the first ball. In those situations, the opposite may take the second contact and set to keep the rally alive.
Why opposite hitter is a high impact position
The opposite position can influence a match in two major ways: scoring and stopping the other team’s scoring.
Offensively, a strong opposite can be a consistent point scorer, especially if they can attack sharp angles or tool the block.
Defensively, a strong opposite can slow down the opponent’s outside hitter, which is often the player getting the most sets. That matchup is one of the most important battles at the net.
When an opposite plays well, it can change the entire tone of a match because it affects both sides of the ball.
Skills that make a strong opposite hitter
Blocking skill is huge. Opposites need good footwork along the net, strong hands, and the ability to press over the net without reaching under. They also need the discipline to read the hitter and jump at the right time.
Attacking skill matters, but it is often about versatility. A good opposite can hit hard, but they can also score with smart shot selection: deep corners, off speed shots, and tools off the block.
Court awareness is important because opposites sometimes help with emergency setting and coverage decisions, especially on broken plays.
Serving and defense also matter, because opposites play all rotations in some systems. In other systems, they may be substituted out in the back row depending on roster makeup and passing needs.
What coaches look for at tryouts
Coaches look for physical tools and mentality.
They want a player who can block with confidence, who does not shy away from tough matchups, and who can attack consistently from the right side.
They also look for a player who stays composed. The opposite can have stretches where they get set repeatedly or where they are targeted in block matchups. Coaches value a player who stays steady and competitive.
Common misconceptions about opposite hitters
A common misconception is that opposite is the “second outside.” While there are similarities, the blocking responsibility and the right side angles change the role.
Another misconception is that opposites do not need ball control skills. Even if the opposite is not a primary passer, they still need to handle defense, coverage, and sometimes emergency setting depending on the system.
How opposites fit into rotations
In a 5 1 offense, the opposite is usually paired with the setter. When the setter is in the back row setting, the opposite is often in the front row as a key attacker. When the setter rotates to the front row, the opposite rotates to the back row.
This pairing influences matchups and how teams choose to run their offense. It is one reason the opposite role can feel very strategic depending on the level.