When your volleyball team has won the right to serve the ball, the block is the first line of defense. Once the ball has crossed the goal line, your players and teammates will go on defense. Volleyball Defense: When your team is serving, your players and teammates are on defense once the ball crosses the net. (Aversen, Ralph) The objective of volleyball defense is to stop the opposing team from getting any points by blocking their attempts at hitting the ball into play. There are two ways for a player to score a point in volleyball: if they hit the ball over the net into the audience or if it bounces back into the court before it touches the ground. If any part of the opponent's body is above the waistline when they hit the ball, you can call a foul and have a free shot. You should also block the ball if it looks like the opposing team's hitter is about to get out of position. For example, if they stand too close to the net or lean forward, then you should step up and block the ball to prevent them from scoring. Finally, you should block the ball if there is any chance that it could hit someone in the audience. For example, if someone is sitting close to the front row with their legs outside the side lines, then you should block the ball to avoid them being hit by it. There are several ways for a player to be awarded a block.