What is a Libero in Volleyball: The Game’s Most Unique Position Explained

“Everybody likes the guy who works hard. Nobody likes the guy who tells you how hard he works.” – Lloy Ball

For fans of volleyball, this quote was once made by Lloy Ball, a four-time Olympian volleyball player who played as a setter. But behind or beside the setter, mostly at the back row, is the “Libero” who is arguably the team’s most hardworking player.

So who exactly is a Libero? What is the role of libero in volleyball, what are their responsibilities and key strengths, and what makes them unique? We answer these questions and much more in this article. 

What is a Libero?

So what is a Libero in Volleyball?

For starters, the word “Libero” is Italian for free, and this translation gives us insight into their job. It also serves as a paradox of sorts for their roles in the back row of a typical six-player volleyball team. 

For one, a Libero is the only player in a volleyball team that can freely substitute in and out of a game in the back row–without reaching the limit per set. 

They usually wear a different jersey to the rest of the team so a game official can keep tabs on them throughout. This is even as they can only be replaced by the same player they replace. Away from that, a Libero is often known as the team’s defense specialist, the “ball control” go-to and the best passer as well. 

As for the question of what is Libero position in volleyball, the answer is broadly “back-row,” mostly left position. They also have clearly defined roles and limitations on the court, as you’ll learn shortly. 

The Libero: Roles, Responsibilities and Qualities 

The next question is “what does Libero do in Volleyball,” and the answer is pretty simple. The Libero is the first line of defense in a Volleyball team. When the opposing team serves the ball or spikes it over the net, the Libero is very often the first point of contact with the ball at the other end. He or she gets to gather the ball before it hits the ground, often while passing it to the setter. The setter then rolls it further for the hitter to return the ball–all under three touches. 

This means that the Libero has to be on guard at all times. They get to dive in low to pass the ball and scuttle quickly across the court to scoop low balls, all while playing within the rules. Their job takes grit and they pass the ball more frequently than others. They also need a special set of skills and qualities to perform well as discussed below.

Good Passing and…