Purpose Our study explores the multifaceted factors influencing serve speed in volleyball, including player position, match progression, and league level, providing actionable insights for performance optimization and injury prevention strategies. Methods Using a cross-sectional approach, the study analyzes 15.347 serves from various leagues. A multifactorial ANOVA analysis was conducted to assess how player positions, sets, and league types influence serving speed. Results Significant differences were observed in serve speed between player positions (F = 375.844, p < .001), throughout match sets (F = 17.624, p < .001), and across different league types (F = 356.914, p < .001). Players in higher leagues, especially the 1st Men`s league, displayed higher serve speeds compared to those in lower leagues (like the 2nd Women`s league). Various serve types (jump float, jump spin, tennis serve) significantly impacted serve speed. Notable interactions between player positions and sets, as well as between positions and league types, were found. However, a three-way interaction among position, sets, and league type was not significant. Conclusions The study emphasizes the need for targeted training interventions considering competitive level, gender, and match progression to optimize serving speed. This research contributes to the field of sports science, especially for performance enhancement in competitive volleyball.
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