The Green Light System

Green Light (Perfect Pass)

• Ball is passed inside the 10-foot line, in front of the setter, with clean trajectory.
• Full offense is live.
  • Middles: Run your first option—1, 31, etc.
  • Pins: Stay on time for tempo.
  • Backrow: Stay on time for tempo.
  • Setters: Rhythm sets; every hitter is a threat.
• Mental cue: Fast is fast
   

Yellow Light (Good but Off-Center Pass)

• Pass is slightly off the net or toward Zone 4/1.
• Setter has options, but adjustments are needed.
  • Middles: Stay ready for a gap quick, 31, or bait.
  • Pins: Be ready to adjust your route slightly wider or slower.
  • Setters: May need to simplify but can still run the offense. 
• Mental cue: Read, adapt, trust spacing.
   

Red Light (Off the Net or Overpass)

• Pass is tight, over, or significantly off the net.
• High ball or emergency offense only.
  • Setters: Prioritize location, not speed.
  • Attackers: Slow down, communicate, take smart swings.
• Mental cue: Fix it first. Don’t force temp

Green Light (Dig Inside 10-Foot Line, In System)

• Dig lands in setter's window; play is “in system.”
  • Middles: Go fast. Your job is to draw the block and stay live.
  • Pins: Be available for fast tempo or go-ball 
  • Setters: Run your options; do not hesitate.
• Mental cue: Tempo is ON. Pressure them.
   

Yellow Light (Dig Near 10–15 Feet Off Net)

• Dig is playable, but setter is on the move or ball is drifting.
  • Middles: Stay alert, but be ready to clear if not used.
  • Pins: Start wide, prepare to time it slower.
  • Setters: Simplify based on spacing 
• Mental cue: Choices are still open—but be smart.
   

Red Light (Scramble Ball or Dig Off Court)

• Setter is running it down or the ball is off-platform.
  • Middles: Transition wide and prepare for coverage.
  • Pins: Prioritize spacing and height—swing with vision.
  • Setters: Go high, go safe, buy time 
• Mental cue: Play for the next touch. Stay alive.