2026-27 VOLLEYBALL RULES CHANGES
2026‑27 VOLLEYBALL RULES CHANGES
4‑2‑1a, 4‑2‑1i(3) (NEW), 4‑2‑2: Libero uniform bottoms may be any color and no longer must
match the team uniform bottoms.
Rationale: Allows more flexibility in the libero uniform bottoms while ensuring that the libero
uniform top continues to contrast with their teammates.
5‑5‑3b(21): The second referee will provide a double whistle warning between sets at two
minutes, 30 seconds (4:30 when intermission is used) instead of 2 minutes, 45 seconds.
Rationale: Improves pace of play between sets by notifying teams earlier to make their way
onto the court for the officials to administer lineup checks before the final audio signal and
resumption of play.
6‑4‑2, 10‑4‑3a, 10‑4‑3d: A team may designate up to two liberos, but only one libero can be in
the game at a time. When a team designates two liberos and one is injured/ill, a new libero may
be re‑designated. When a team designates two liberos and one is disqualified; the team must
continue with one libero.
Rationale: Allows more student‑athletes to participate by creating an additional opportunity for
coaches without having to utilize a substitution.
6‑4 PENALTIES 1c (NEW), 12‑2‑8b NOTE (NEW): If non‑playing teammate(s) (bench players)
enter the court during play it is illegal alignment. It remains a conduct violation if a coach or
team attendant (anyone not in uniform) enters the court while the ball is in play.
Rationale: More appropriately assesses illegal alignment (loss of rally/point awarded to the
opponent) to non‑playing teammates who enter the court while the ball is in play. A player who
enters the court during play may still receive a conduct violation if they engage in disconcerting
acts, disrespectful language, etc. This penalty realignment allows officials to appropriately
penalize teams based on participant actions.
6‑5‑1: Players on the serving team are not permitted to raise their hands above their heads
during service until the ball has passed beyond the net.
February 5, 2026
Page No. 2
Rationale: Discourages player positioning during the serve that prevents the receiving team
from viewing service contact and/or the flight of the ball and assists officials when evaluating
the existence of screening. This change aligns with all other volleyball rules codes.
9‑2‑1 NOTE 1 (NEW): Players shall not wear any audio or video devices during the match.
Rationale: Clarifies the prohibition of electronic communication with and by players during the
match and aligns with other NFHS rules codes.
12‑2‑8m (NEW): It is an unsporting conduct violation if coaches, non‑playing teammates or
team attendants use props on the bench during celebrations.
Rationale: Clarifies appropriate bench conduct for consistent enforcement by eliminating the
use of props in bench celebrations while promoting sportsmanship and preventing disruption
and potential safety concerns.
2026‑27 Volleyball Editorial Changes
1‑5‑1, 5‑2‑1b, 5‑4‑3c(1), 5‑4‑4a, 7‑1‑1a, 7‑1‑1 PENALTIES 3, 7‑1‑2a, 7‑1‑4 PENALTIES 1, 9‑9‑1h
2026‑27 Volleyball Points of Emphasis
1. Host Management Best Practices
2. Electronic Devices
3. Bench Personnel – Non‑Playing Teammates
4. NFHS Authenticating Mark
