What’s the Difference Between Newcombe Ball and Volleyball: A Comprehensive Comparison

Newcombe ball and volleyball, two sports that have gained immense popularity worldwide, are often compared as they share similarities in their gameplay. Both sports require team coordination, communication and involve hitting a ball over the net. However, despite their similarities, it’s important to understand the differences between Newcombe ball and volleyball to master the gameplay.

Newcombe ball, named after the tennis superstars, John and Judy Newcombe, is essentially a modified version of volleyball. The game is played with a soft ball and a larger net, giving players the opportunity to use their hands and feet. Newcombe ball focuses on a high-intensity game almost similar to dodgeball, which is not seen in volleyball. Players have to be quick and agile in their movements, making split-second decisions to either pass the ball or take a shot at the opposing team.

Volleyball, on the other hand, is a more structured game that requires each player to have a specialized role. The game is played using a harder ball, and the net is smaller, not allowing the ball to touch the ground. Players focus on passing, setting, spiking, blocking, and digging to score against the opponent. Volleyball relies heavily on team coordination, with each player having to understand their role in the team. These differences in gameplay make both games unique and exciting to watch and play.

The History of Newcombe Ball and Volleyball

Newcombe ball and volleyball are two popular sports that share some similarities yet have several differences. Both sports require players to hit a ball over a net using their hands, but the rules, court size, and purpose of the games are different. To understand the contrast between the two games, it is essential to understand their history.

Newcombe ball was created in 1895 by Canadian Dr. J.T. Newcombe, who wanted to invent a game that was less physically demanding than basketball but required similar skills. It was first played in Montreal, Canada, as a recreational sport and gained popularity in the United States and Great Britain.

  • Newcombe ball is played on a court that measures roughly 30 feet by 60 feet, which is smaller than a volleyball court.
  • The game is played with a rubber ball that is roughly the size of a volleyball, but lighter in weight, making it easier to serve and hit.
  • Newcombe ball can be played with any number of players, but the standard format is six versus six.
  • The objective of the game is to hit the ball over the net and bounce it off the ground on the opponent’s side without them being able to return it.
  • The ball can be hit with any part of the body, including the hands, which is why Newcombe ball is often compared to volleyball.

Volleyball, on the other hand, was invented in 1895 by William G. Morgan, a physical education director in Massachusetts, USA. Morgan wanted to create a game that was less aggressive than basketball, but still required physical skill, technique, and strategy.

Similar to Newcombe ball, volleyball was originally played as a recreational game; however, it quickly gained popularity, becoming an Olympic sport in 1964.

  • Volleyball is played on a larger court, measuring approximately 30 feet by 60 feet, which is longer and wider than a Newcombe ball court.
  • The game is played with a lighter and larger ball than Newcombe ball and requires specific techniques to pass, set, and hit.
  • Volleyball can be played with any number of players, but is typically played six versus six in professional leagues and tournaments.
  • The objective of the game is to hit the ball over the net and touch it on the opponent’s side without them being able to return it.
  • The ball can only be hit with the hands and arms, creating a more specialized skill set required for the sport.

In conclusion, while both Newcombe ball and volleyball share some similarities, such as hitting a ball over a net using the hands, they have different origins, court sizes, ball sizes, objectives, and rules. Understanding their history helps put the contrasting characteristics of each sport into perspective.

Equipment requirements for newcombe ball and volleyball

Both newcombe ball and volleyball require specific equipment and gear in order to be able to play the game safely and effectively. Let’s take a closer look at the equipment requirements for both sports:

  • Net: Both newcombe ball and volleyball require a net that is set up in the middle of the playing area.
  • Ball: While both sports require a ball, the balls used in each sport are different. Newcombe ball is played with a softer, lighter ball, while volleyball is played with a heavier ball that has a harder feel to it.
  • Footwear: Both sports require the use of proper footwear to ensure safety and proper movement. Volleyball is typically played in court shoes, which have gum rubber soles to ensure good traction on the court. Newcombe ball players can wear a variety of shoes, but they must be comfortable and allow for easy movement on the court.

Aside from the basic equipment, there are a few additional requirements that are specific to each sport:

Newcombe ball: In addition to the basic equipment requirements listed above, newcombe ball players may also choose to wear kneepads to protect their knees during play. The court can be played indoors or outdoors with a playing area approximately 60 by 30 feet in size.

Volleyball: In addition to the basic equipment requirements listed above, volleyball players must wear numbered jerseys that have contrasting colors to distinguish each team. The volleyball court is played indoors or outdoors with a playing area approximately 59 by 29.5 feet in size.

Equipment Newcombe Ball Volleyball
Net Required Required
Ball Soft, Light Heavy, Harder Feel
Footwear Comfortable, Easy Movement Court Shoes with Gum Rubber Soles
Kneepads / Numbered Jerseys Optional Numbered Jerseys Required (Kneepads Optional)

In summary, while both newcombe ball and volleyball require a net, ball, and proper footwear, there are some differences between the two sports in terms of equipment requirements. Newcombe ball players may choose to wear kneepads, while volleyball players must wear numbered jerseys that have contrasting colors. Both sports can be played indoors or outdoors, and the playing area for each is similar in size.

Basic Rules of Newcombe Ball and Volleyball


Newcombe Ball and Volleyball are two popular ball games that are enjoyed by many people worldwide. Both games are played on a court; however, they have distinct differences when it comes to their rules and gameplay.

Here we will discuss the basic rules of each game so you can have a better understanding of their differences.

Newcombe Ball Rules

  • Newcombe Ball is played on a court that is divided into four equal squares.
  • The game is played with a wiffle ball and can be played with two or more players.
  • The objective of the game is to hit the ball back and forth over the net, trying to land the ball in the opponent’s square.
  • Players may only hit the ball with their hands and must not carry or hold the ball.
  • The ball may be caught mid-air but must be hit back immediately after catching it.

Volleyball Rules

  • Volleyball is played on a court that is divided into two equal sides with a net in the middle.
  • The game is played with a traditional volleyball and can be played with two or more players.
  • The objective of the game is to hit the ball over the net, trying to make it land in the opponent’s court.
  • Players may only hit the ball with their hands, arms, or any part of their body as long as it’s not held or carried.
  • Teams have three hits to return the ball over the net back to the opponent’s side of the court.

Differences in Rules

One of the key differences between Newcombe Ball and Volleyball is their gameplay and court setup. Newcombe Ball’s court is divided into four equal squares, while Volleyball’s court is divided into two equal halves.

Another difference is the way the ball is hit. In Newcombe Ball, players can only hit the ball with their hands, while in Volleyball, players can use any part of their body to hit the ball. Additionally, Volleyball allows for teams to have three hits before returning the ball over the net, while there are no set limits on the number of hits in Newcombe Ball.

Game Court Setup Ball Hit Restrictions Number of Hits
Newcombe Ball Four equal squares Wiffle ball Hands only Any number of hits
Volleyball Two equal halves Traditional volleyball Any part of the body Three hits per team

With these basic rules in mind, you can now better understand the differences between Newcombe Ball and Volleyball. Whether you’re looking for a more relaxed backyard game or a competitive sport, both games are great options that offer their own unique challenges and fun.

Differences in court size and shape for newcombe ball and volleyball

Newcombe ball and volleyball have distinctly different court sizes and shapes. This is because each sport has its own set of rules and objectives, requiring unique playing environments.

  • Court size: The court size for newcombe ball is smaller compared to volleyball. The size of a standard newcombe ball court is 30 feet wide by 60 feet long, while a volleyball court measures 30 feet by 60 feet for indoor games and 27 feet by 54 feet for outdoor games.
  • Net height: In newcombe ball, the net is closer to the ground compared to volleyball. The standard net height for newcombe ball is 5 feet high, whereas for volleyball, it is 7 feet 11 5/8 inches for men and 7 feet 4 1/8 inches for women.
  • Playing surface: Newcombe ball is played on grass or sand, while volleyball is played on a harder surface such as a gymnasium floor, beach sand, or grass. The surface also affects shoes worn while playing with volleyball players usually wearing shoes for indoor play while beach volleyball players wearing sandals or no shoes at all.

The following table summarizes the differences in court size and net height for newcombe ball and volleyball:

Sport Court Size (ft.) Net Height (ft.)
Newcombe Ball 30 x 60 5
Volleyball Indoor: 30 x 60
Outdoor: 27 x 54
Men: 7’11 5/8″
Women: 7’4 1/8″

Understanding the differences in court size and shape for newcombe ball and volleyball is essential in appreciating each game’s unique characteristics. While some similarities exist between them, it is the distinct court sizes, net heights, and playing surfaces that make each sport unique.

Skill sets required for newcombe ball and volleyball

While newcombe ball and volleyball share some similarities such as using a net and having teams of players, they differ when it comes to the necessary skill sets required to play and excel at each sport. Here are five key skills required for each sport:

  • Newcombe ball: In newcombe ball, players must have quick reaction times and good hand-eye coordination to hit the ball back and forth across the net, similar to volleyball. However, newcombe ball also requires agility and footwork as players must constantly move around the court to make plays. Finally, good communication skills are essential to ensure that team members are coordinated and working together effectively.
  • Volleyball: Volleyball players rely heavily on jumping and explosive power to hit the ball over the net and block their opponents’ shots. Therefore, a strong lower body and core are necessary to be successful in volleyball. In addition, volleyball requires precise ball control skills such as passing, setting, and spiking. As with newcombe ball, good communication is key in volleyball to coordinate plays and defensive strategies.

Both sports require teamwork, timing, and good reaction times to succeed. However, each sport also has unique skill sets that players must develop to excel.

Popular Variations of Newcombe Ball and Volleyball

Both Newcombe ball and volleyball have various versions played all around the world. These variations are designed to make the game more challenging and exciting. Here are some of the popular variations:

  • 3 Ball Volleyball: This variation is played with three balls instead of one. It requires players to be quick and alert as they try to defend their side of the court against multiple balls at the same time.
  • Canadian Volleyball: This variation is played with a bigger ball and a higher net. It is known for its fast-paced action and requires players to be physically fit and agile.
  • Beach Volleyball: This variation is played on sand with two players on each team. Beach volleyball requires players to have a good sense of balance, as the sand makes it challenging to move quickly.

In Newcombe ball, some popular variations are:

  • Side-Out Newcombe Ball: This version is similar to regular Newcombe ball, but with a twist. Teams must score on their serve or they lose the serve. This variation requires players to be more strategic with their serves.
  • Powerball: In Powerball, players are allowed to hit the ball as hard as they can. The ball is also heavier than a regular Newcombe ball. This game requires players to be strong and powerful hitters but also have good reflexes as the ball comes at them quickly.
  • International Newcombe Ball: This variation is played on a larger court with a higher net and is known for its fast-paced action. This game requires players to be skilled and agile as they move around the court.

Newcombe Ball vs. Volleyball: What’s the Difference?

While both games have similarities, such as hitting the ball over a net, there are some key differences between Newcombe ball and volleyball. First, the size of the court is different. A Newcombe ball court is smaller than a volleyball court, making the game faster and more intense. Second, in Newcombe ball, the ball can be passed with the hands or any other part of the body, whereas in volleyball, players are only allowed to use their hands and arms to pass the ball.

Comparison Newcombe Ball Volleyball
Size of Court Smaller Larger
Number of Players 2-6 6
Scoring Score on every serve Score only when serving
Ball Handling Can use any part of body Can only use hands and arms

Overall, both Newcombe ball and volleyball are exciting sports that require teamwork, strategy, and skill. Whether you prefer the faster pace of Newcombe ball or the technical aspects of volleyball, both games offer a great workout and the opportunity to have fun with friends or family.

Comparing the Pace and Intensity of Gameplay in Newcombe Ball and Volleyball

When it comes to sports, the pace and intensity of gameplay can have a significant impact on the overall experience. In both Newcombe ball and volleyball, these factors play a crucial role in determining the level of excitement and engagement for players and spectators alike.

Let’s take a closer look at how the pace and intensity of gameplay compare between these two sports:

The Pace of Gameplay

  • Newcombe ball typically has a slower pace of gameplay than volleyball. This is due to the fact that the ball used in Newcombe ball is larger and heavier than the ball used in volleyball. The larger size and weight of the ball make it more challenging to move quickly across the court, resulting in a slower pace of play.
  • At the same time, the pace of gameplay in Newcombe ball can vary depending on the skill level of the players. More experienced players may be able to move the ball faster, resulting in a quicker pace of play.
  • In volleyball, on the other hand, the smaller and lighter ball allows for a much faster pace of gameplay. Players can hit the ball quickly back and forth across the court, resulting in a more energetic and fast-paced game.

The Intensity of Gameplay

Both Newcombe ball and volleyball require a great deal of physical exertion and athleticism from players, making them both intense sports to play. However, there are a few key differences:

  • Newcombe ball tends to be played at a lower intensity level than volleyball. While the game can still be physically demanding, the slower pace of play allows for more rest time between points, which can make it easier for players to catch their breath and recover.
  • In volleyball, the fast-paced nature of the game means that players must constantly be on the move, jumping and diving to make plays. This can result in a higher overall intensity level, as players need to maintain a high level of energy and focus throughout the game.
  • Additionally, the scoring system in volleyball also has an impact on the intensity level of the game. In volleyball, points can be scored on every play, meaning that the game can come down to the wire and be incredibly exciting. In Newcombe ball, points are only scored when a team wins a serve, making it less intense and more methodical in its approach.

Conclusion

Overall, the pace and intensity of gameplay in Newcombe ball and volleyball vary based on a variety of factors. Both are physically demanding and require athleticism, but the size and weight of the ball, as well as the scoring system, play a significant role in determining the overall pace and intensity of the game.

Newcombe Ball Volleyball
Slower pace Faster pace
Lower intensity Higher intensity
Points scored only when winning serve Points scored on every play

Ultimately, the choice between Newcombe ball and volleyball comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer a slower paced, more methodical game or a faster paced, high-energy game, there is a sport out there for everyone.

What’s the Difference between Newcombe Ball and Volleyball?

Q: What is Newcombe Ball?
A: Newcombe ball is a ball game played on a court divided by a net, similar to volleyball. However, there are some key differences that set Newcombe ball apart.

Q: What are the differences between Newcombe Ball and Volleyball?
A: Newcombe ball has a larger, softer ball and is played with no hands. Players use their arms and chest to pass, and can hit the ball with any part of their body except their hands. There is also no rotation of service, and the game is played to 21 points, with no need to win by two points.

Q: How many players are on each team in Newcombe Ball?
A: Newcombe ball is typically played with two players on each team. However, it can also be played with four or more players on each team, depending on the size of the court.

Q: What are the benefits of playing Newcombe Ball?
A: Newcombe ball provides a great cardiovascular workout and helps to improve hand-eye coordination and reflexes. It also promotes teamwork and communication skills.

Q: Is Newcombe Ball suitable for all ages and skill levels?
A: Yes! Newcombe ball is a fun and inclusive game that is suitable for all ages and skill levels. It can be played at parks, schools, and community centers, making it an accessible and enjoyable activity for everyone.

Thanks for Reading!

We hope this article has helped you understand the differences between Newcombe ball and volleyball. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a beginner, give Newcombe ball a try. It’s a great way to have fun and stay active. Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to visit us again for more informative articles!