New Rule Changes

For the IHSAA 2026 volleyball season, major rules changes from the NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) ruleshttps://www.ohsaa.org/news-media/articles/libero-rules-adjusted-in-high-school-volleyball (which IHSAA follows) focus on the libero (up to two designated per set, one playing at a time), player conduct (no audio/video devices, stricter bench behavior), and service rules (no hands above head on serve until ball crosses net), plus a new rule allowing textured volleyballs if adopted by states. These align with national trends to enhance participation, improve pace, and modernize gameplay for the upcoming school year.

• Multiple Libero Designation: Teams can now designate up to two liberos on the lineup sheet before each set, though only one can play at a time, increasing player opportunities without using a substitution.
• Audio/Video Device Ban: Players are prohibited from wearing any audio (microphone) or video (camera) devices during matches.
• Serving Rules: Players on the serving team cannot raise their hands above their heads until the ball has passed beyond the net.
• Pace of Play: The second referee will give a second warning for the break between sets at 2 minutes, 30 seconds (down from 2:45) to speed up the game.
• Undergarments: Allows black, white, or gray undergarments in addition to matching uniform colors, aligning with other sports.
• Textured Volleyballs (Optional): State associations can adopt the use of non-smooth or textured volleyballs for more inclusivity.

These changes were recommended by the NFHS Volleyball Rules Committee and approved by the NFHS Board, with IHSAA implementing these national standards for Indiana high school volleyball.

IHSAA IMPORTANT DATES

• IHSAA official start of fall practices- Monday, August 3
• First official IHSAA contest- Saturday, August 15
• IHSAA Tournament entry deadline- Monday, September 23
• IHSAA Sectional Tournament Pairings Show- Sunday, October 4, 7 pm ET/6 pm CT, streamed on IHSAAtv.org hosted by Greg Rakestraw.  Please share images of your team gathering with us @IHSVCA and @IHSAAVB.
• IHSAA Sectional dates- October 13, 15, 17
• IHSAA Regional date- Saturday, October 24
• IHSAA Semi-State – Saturday, October 31
• IHSAA State Finals- Saturday, November 7

IHSVCA Important Dates/Deadlines