WV Regional Sports Network Forums

I don't know what everyone else thinks but I feel the new rule changes are great and a step in the right direction. These rule changes bring the NFHS rules closer in line with USAV rules, I think that if USA is going to continue to be a force internationally the rules for the sport should be unified across H.S., club college, and national teams. I particuarly like the colored ball change that will take effect in 2010, they use colored balls in every other competitive volleyball arena except H.S.. This will make it much easier for the fans and players to follow the ball not to mention spice up the game. I also like the idea of the coach being allowed to leave his seat, I know alot of people will be afraid that it will allow coaches to be more animated and distracting to the officials (ie basketball) but I look at it from a perspective of allowing coaches to more effectively communicate with their players. (I always thought the sit-down rule was ridiculous) I'm a little luke warm on the change to allow players to play the ball with any part of their bodies, but I guess it will be cool to see some dynamic "foot digs" in the future! I have a feeling the referees, especially in our state, are going to hate these changes. Why does it seem our referees, in particular, are stuck in the stone ages of volleyball officiating and are so resistant to change? It seems as though WV and our governing body is more worried about uniforms, what coaches are wearing or doing, and other little things that have no real effect on the game, instead of focusing on the actual accuracy of the calls and applications of the "NEW" rule changes. Although I must admit I have seen some improvement over the last few years, but in some cases the old rule definetly applies "you can't teach old dogs new tricks."