<![CDATA[Background: The volleyball smash is a complex technique requiring coordination, timing, and movement accuracy. Aims: This study aimed to describe open-spike difficulties and their causal factors among athletes at ABT Club, Air Beliti Village. Methods: A descriptive qualitative design was used with 10 male athletes and one supporting coach. Data were collected through direct observation, structured interviews, and documentation, then analyzed through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing and verification. Credibility was strengthened through technique triangulation. Results: The most consistent difficulties occurred during preparation and ball contact, particularly approach-step control, excessive approach speed, insufficient jump height, body position relative to the net, arm-swing coordination, hitting-hand position, and ball-contact accuracy. Landing was generally adequate. Conclusion: The findings indicate an interconnected sequence of technical difficulties and provide a practical basis for targeted coaching. The biomechanical interpretation is supported by previous literature, while direct kinematic measurement remains a recommendation for future research. Background: The volleyball smash is a complex technique requiring coordination, timing, and movement accuracy. Aims: This study aimed to describe open-spike difficulties and their causal factors among athletes at ABT Club, Air Beliti Village. Methods: A descriptive qualitative design was used with 10 male athletes and one supporting coach. Data were collected through direct observation, structured interviews, and documentation, then analyzed through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing and verification. Credibility was strengthened through technique triangulation. Results: The most consistent difficulties occurred during preparation and ball contact, particularly approach-step control, excessive approach speed, insufficient jump height, body position relative to the net, arm-swing coordination, hitting-hand position, and ball-contact accuracy. Landing was generally adequate. Conclusion: The findings indicate an interconnected sequence of technical difficulties and provide a practical basis for targeted coaching. The biomechanical interpretation is supported by previous literature, while direct kinematic measurement remains a recommendation for future research.]]>
