What is meant by "double contact" in volleyball?

The term "double contact" in volleyball specifically refers to the situation where a player touches the ball twice in succession, typically during an attempt to play it. This is significant because the rules of volleyball dictate that a player is allowed only a single contact when attempting to play the ball, except in certain circumstances such as when the ball is coming from a hard-driven attack.

In most standard situations, if a player makes double contact, it results in a fault, and the opposing team is awarded a point or possession of the serve. This can happen frequently during the first touch, especially when a player is receiving a serve or a quick attack, where the ball is sometimes difficult to control effectively. Understanding the concept of double contact is crucial for players, as it influences how they approach passing and setting the ball during play, ensuring they are mindful to make a clean single contact.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the definition of double contact. The situation described in the first option relates to the ball's interaction with the net, which is not connected to player touches. The third option about serving techniques does not pertain to double contacts at all. Lastly, simultaneous hits by two players concern situations like dual contacts occurring in blocking rather than the individual action of