Volleyball, originally called “mintonette,” was invented in 1895 by William G. Morgan, a physical director at the YMCA in Holyoke, Massachusetts. He designed the game as a less strenuous alternative to basketball, aiming to create a sport suitable for older members of the YMCA. The initial game combined elements from basketball, baseball, tennis, and handball.

The first official game of volleyball was played on July 7, 1896, at Springfield College. Shortly thereafter, the sport’s name was changed to “volleyball” to better describe the primary action of volleying the ball back and forth over the net. In 1900, a lighter and smaller ball was specifically designed for the game, enhancing its playability.

Volleyball’s popularity spread rapidly through YMCA networks, reaching countries like Canada, Cuba, and Japan by the early 1900s. In 1916, the Philippines introduced the offensive techniques of setting and spiking, adding a new dimension to the game. The standardization of rules continued, and by 1920, the three-hit rule and back-row attack rules were established.

The sport’s global reach expanded further with the formation of the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) in 1947, serving as the international governing body. Volleyball made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo Games in 1964, solidifying its status as a major international sport. Beach volleyball, a popular variant, was introduced to the Olympics in 1996.

Today, volleyball is played by millions worldwide, both indoors and on the beach, celebrated for its dynamic play and team-oriented nature.