William Morgan Invents Volleyball

In 1895, American physical educator William G. Morgan devised a new indoor athletic activity while directing programs at the YMCA in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Morgan, who had studied under the inventor of basketball, James Naismith, observed that the physical contact and exertion of basketball did not suit all YMCA patrons, particularly older businessmen. Looking to create an engaging pastime with less physical strain, Morgan drew inspiration from badminton and named his creation mintonette. The contest was intended to keep players active while reducing the risk of violent collisions.

Morgan's original regulations differed noticeably from the modern sport. His framework specified a court measuring twenty-five by fifty feet, divided by a net suspended six feet six inches above the ground. Matches consisted of nine innings, during which each side was allotted three serves. Teams could play with any number of participants, and players were allowed an unlimited number of contacts before returning the ball across the net. A missed first serve was permitted a second attempt, though hitting the ball into the net during ordinary rallies counted as an error.