Page 19 - Jim Stone Book Beginner

Throwing

When teaching correct throwing mechanics, I emphasize the T-position and the Yes position.
The T-position is essential to developing proper throwing mechanics. I hear so many coaches say
to their spikers to "get your elbow up." With this cue, the player will raise their hand above their head
in the effort to "get their elbow up.

Correct Incorrect

I consider this type of cue to be incorrect. Examine the two pictures above of the arm preparation for
an attack. The one of the left has the elbow back (T-Position), the one on the right has the elbow up.
Notice the difference in the upper body position. What coaches should be saying is get to the elbow
back or in the "T-position." Some coaches refer to this motion as a "bow and arrow" arm action. The
T-position will open the hips and shoulders to the ball and encourage the athlete to incorporate the
upper body's rotational motion into the throwing or attacking arm motion. Using the entire upper
body into the attack will generate increased arm and hand velocity into the ball and reduce the strain
on the shoulder muscles.