Abstract:

The present study attempted a follow-up of the time characteristics in elite volleyball, four years after the implementation of the new regulations. To this aim data concerning set and match points and duration and total match duration from two consecutive Olympic volleyball competitions in men and women (Sidney, 2000 and Athens, 2004) were compared. Results indicated a statistically significant increase of the corresponding sets duration, and as a result of the match and total match duration, in the Athens Olympics, both for men and women. On the contrary the total number of set points remained the same. Consequently, the increase in set time duration is caused exclusively by rally time expansion. In conclusion, time characteristics of the volleyball game continue to be influenced by the impact of the new regulations.  Keywords: volleyball, time characteristics, rules.