College coaches evaluate beach volleyball recruits based on specific skills relevant to your performance in the sand. When building your playlists, use the skill tags below to highlight the components of your game that coaches want to see most. 

Beach Volleyball Skills in Playlists:

• Attacking
• Blocking
• Defense
• Passing
• Serving
• Setting
• Transition
• Other

⭐ Tip: If a clip contains multiple skills or covers an extended play, use multiple tags so college coaches can evaluate it accurately. For example, a successful dig that leads to a transition kill should be tagged with both "Defense" and "Transition."

Universal Skills: The Core of the Game 

These tags demonstrate your overall commitment to the sport and your ability to perform the foundational movements required of every player on the sand.

• Serving: Showcase your range of serves (float, jump, or sky ball) and your ability to target specific areas of the court. Coaches look for a repeatable, high-level motion that puts the opponent out of the system.
• Passing: Highlight your ball control and ability to provide a clean platform under pressure. Consistent passing is a primary indicator of your ability to start the offense effectively.
• Transition: This tag is perfect for clips showing the flow of the game—such as moving from a defensive dig into an offensive approach. Coaches want to see your footwork and "sand legs" during these high-intensity sequences.
• Other: Use this tag for unique highlights that don't fit into standard categories, such as exceptional hustle plays, leadership moments, or strength and conditioning work. Make sure to add a caption when using this tag to provide as much context as possible for college coaches. 
   

Position-Specific & Tactical Skills

While beach volleyball requires all-around play, these tags allow you to highlight your specialized role at the net or in the backcourt.

Blockers

For players who specialize at the net, focus on clips that demonstrate your ability to disrupt the opponent's offense.

• Blocking: Use this tag to show your timing, hand positioning, and lateral movement at the net. Coaches evaluate your ability to take away specific angles and force the attacker into the defender.
• Attacking: Showcase your variety of shots, including hard-driven swings, pokes, and rolls. Coaches look for your ability to find open court and capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Defenders

Defenders should focus on clips that demonstrate their range and ability to keep the ball in play.

• Defense: Use this tag for digs and pursuits. Demonstrate your reading of the hitter, your "first step" quickness, and your ability to force attackers away from the "danger zone".
• Setting: Highlight your ability to deliver a hittable ball from various spots on the court, whether using hands or a bump set. Coaches look for your vision and ability to set your partner up for success.

After learning what coaches are looking for with your specific role, it’s time to start creating your playlists. Check out our article, “Building Your Playlists”, to get started!