Why Doubles Volleyball Makes You a Better Player Than Sixes
Before anyone gets upset, let's be clear:
Sixes is amazing.
Indoor sixes requires teamwork, systems, communication, and strategy that doubles simply can't replicate.
But if your goal is improving as an individual volleyball player, there's a strong argument that doubles is the fastest teacher in the sport.
That's why so many experienced players spend their summers grinding doubles games even if they primarily play indoor volleyball.
Here's why.
1. You Touch the Ball More
This is the biggest advantage of doubles.
In sixes, there are five other teammates sharing responsibilities.
In doubles, there are only two.
That means:
- More serves
- More passes
- More sets
- More attacks
- More defensive plays
You simply can't hide.
A player might touch the ball a handful of times during a sixes rally.
In doubles, you're involved in almost everything.
More touches usually means faster improvement.
2. Every Weakness Gets Exposed
One of the harsh realities of doubles is that weaknesses become obvious very quickly.
Can't pass consistently?
Everyone notices.
Struggle to move laterally?
You'll find out fast.
Poor communication?
The scoreboard will tell the story.
While that can be frustrating, it's also one of the fastest ways to improve because you immediately learn what needs work.
3. You Learn Every Skill
In sixes, players often specialize.
Some players rarely set.
Others rarely attack.
Many players spend most of their time performing a specific role.
Doubles is different.
You need to:
- Pass
- Set
- Attack
- Defend
- Serve
Every single game.
That creates a more complete volleyball player.
4. Court Awareness Improves Quickly
Good doubles players develop incredible court awareness.
Because there are fewer players on the court, you constantly have to read:
- Opponents
- Open space
- Defensive positioning
- Shot opportunities
You begin seeing the game differently.
Many players discover that when they return to sixes, the game feels slower and easier to read.
5. Movement Becomes Non-Negotiable
In sixes, teammates can sometimes cover for poor movement.
In doubles, they can't.
You have to:
- Chase balls
- Cover tips
- Transition quickly
- Recover after attacks
This forces players to develop better movement habits.
And better movement improves nearly every skill in volleyball.
6. Every Point Feels Important
Because there are only two players, every mistake carries more weight.
Missed serve?
You feel it.
Bad pass?
You feel it.
Poor decision?
You definitely feel it.
This teaches accountability and helps players become mentally stronger over time.
7. Doubles Teaches Problem Solving
The best doubles players aren't always the biggest or strongest.
They're often the smartest.
Successful doubles teams constantly adjust:
- Serving strategy
- Defensive positioning
- Shot selection
- Communication
The game becomes a chess match.
And that problem-solving ability transfers directly into sixes.
So Is Doubles Better Than Sixes?
Not necessarily.
They're different games.
Sixes teaches:
- Team systems
- Position-specific responsibilities
- Complex offensive strategies
Doubles teaches:
- Ball control
- Versatility
- Court awareness
- Individual accountability
The best players usually spend time playing both.
But if you're looking to improve your overall volleyball skills as quickly as possible, adding more doubles to your schedule is one of the smartest things you can do.
Why So Many NYC Players Love Doubles
Part of the reason doubles is so popular in New York is simple:
Court space is limited.
Over time, that created a strong doubles culture where players developed incredible all-around skills.
Whether you're playing at Central Park, Domino Park, or another local court, you'll quickly notice that doubles rewards players who can do everything.
And that's exactly why so many volleyball players become obsessed with it.
Final Thoughts
If you've never played much doubles, give it a chance.
It might expose your weaknesses.
It might humble you.
It might leave you exhausted.
But it will almost certainly make you a better volleyball player.
And when you're spending hours grinding doubles games, having comfortable gear makes a difference.
Check out our New York Volleyball apparel collection for volleyball-inspired designs built around the NYC volleyball lifestyle.
Need protection from long summer sessions? Browse our volleyball hats for outdoor courts.
And for all-day tournaments and pickup runs, explore our volleyball accessories collection.