Position of the game: Libero

After the Summer Olympics of 1988, the International Federation of Volleyball revolutionized the volleyball with the addition of a defensive position — the libero.The Federation added the libero position in order to increase the presence of defense on the court, and to foster more defensive plays, leading to longer rallies and make the game more attractive to the average fan.The libero fills one of the most important roles in volleyball because, without a strong defense, the offense cannot be strong, making it impossible for the team to score a point and follow through with the desired play. The libero can take the place of any player in the back row without using up the team’s substitutions, whereas other defensive specialists are limited to only 12 substitutions per game.The word libero, an Italian word meaning “free,” is a true description position, given its amount of freedom on the court.“Our liberos serve a few purposes: they pass and play defense which also gives the middle blockers a chance to rest in the back row,” Volleyball coach Liane Sato said.Liberos have their own set of rules, different from those of other teammates. The libero can only substitute for two players who play the same position. For example, there are two middle blockers on each team, who excel in front row offense. When they are in the back row as defense, the libero will substiture in for them. However, the libero is only allowed to serve for one of the players that he or she substitutes in for, so one of the two middle blockers will have to serve and play defense for one rotation.The libero is not allowed to block or even attempt to block the ball when it comes over the net. Liberos are contained to the back row and are not allowed to attack the ball offensively.One of Samo’s liberos, Ella Ponthier (’15), thinks the libero adds to the team’s spirit and helps the players get their heads in the game.“The libero can change the game by making a perfect free ball pass or getting a great dig,” Ponthier said. They give the team a lot of energy and excitement. One pass could help build confidence of the team.”The libero is usually the strongest defensive player on the team and is skilled in serve-receive — when the other team serves to the libero’s side. The libero is generally the one who makes the first contact and sends the ball to the setter.To distinguish themselves from the rest of the team, the libero is required to wear a different colored jersey, so that when the libero substitutes in and out, they will not be counted as substitutions.“The libero is important because they help the other members on the team, whether by calling out open areas on the opponent’s side for our hitters, or just bringing the energy and intensity to the court,” Ariana Nicol (’15) said.