Five Simple Rules of Filming a Volleyball Match

Having recently collected statistics of several Super 8s Men’s matches (see blog post entry), it also revealed another amazing statistic: only 3 of 13 matches contained the full match video.  That is an unbelievable 23%.  So I have decided to draw up 5 simple rules of volleyball video recording so we get full match videos.

5 Simple Rules of Filming a Volleyball Match

* If you forgot to fully charge the camcorder or the battery does not enable you to video record for 2 hours, make sure you look for a DC power source at the venue to hook up the camcorder to.

* Ideally, the SD card should be cleared the night before. * If the SD card cannot record 2 hours, either reduce the video quality or ensure there is a second SD card to swap in after the first is at full capacity.

* It should include: a.  , fully charged. b.  , empty. c.  . d.  , for back up purposes.

* Ideally, it should be: – or as much of the court is in view.  This is absolutely ESSENTIAL!  This is so I know who to charge what statistics.  The best spot is behind the centre of the baseline. – this is quite important too because statistics rely on the referee’s decisions, e.g. a player who spikes the ball into the net will not be charged an attack error if the referee call for a double touch on the setter.  Getting the statistics correct is important for accuracy. – easier to get the required angle.  – the best way to check is if the net is parallel to the top or bottom of the viewer. – it is easier to spot players and is better for post-match analysis.

* Below is an example of the best camcorder angle.  

* Below is an example of less than ideal camcorder angle.  The referees are not in view, the angle is slightly wonky and the whole court is not in view.  Polonia (red team) are currently serving but the server is not in view (although it can be logically determined).

* Whenever is the best time/ easiest to remember, please ensure you record the match before it starts. * The best time for me personally is during the service section of the warm-up.  The 2 minutes gives you ample time to press record on the camcorder before warm up finishes.

* There is no need press stop between sets or during time outs.  It will only increase the chances of forgetting to press “record” again.  It is preferable to have 15+mins of extra footage then missing footage.

Finally

I know there are 6 simple rules instead of the advertised 5 but if you follow the 6 simple rules then everybody wins (except for the team that actually loses the match of course).