The 5-1 Rotation
The 5-1 rotation is often used if one setter is vastly better than another, if a setter is tall enough to present a blocking threat, or if there is no hitter available to substitute out for the setter in the front row. In the 5-1 rotation, there are always 5 hitters on the court and one setter. The advantage is (hopefully) consistent setting which makes it easier for the hitters. The disadvantage is that in three of the rotations, there are only two hitters available. If a setter can present herself as an offensive threat by dumping, this will become less of a disadvantage.
Rotation 1: The front row has all hitters, and the setter is back row.
Rotation 2: The setter is in the middle back position in Rotation 2. There are three hitters in the front row.
Rotation 3: The setter is in the left back position now. There are still three hitters in the front row, but notice that the libero has gone in for MB1. MB2 now comes into the front row.
Rotation 4: The setter moves to the front row, which means there are now only two front row attackers. Again, the setter should try to establish herself as an offensive threat.
Rotation 5: The setter is still in the front row in the middle front position.
Rotation 6: The setter is in the right front position. Notice that MB2 is out and MB1 is back in.
