The main attack and the secondary attack in volleyball are two key positions, each with different responsibilities and tasks.
The main attacker is usually responsible for attacking in the No. 4 position (and sometimes switching to the No. 2 position or the back row attack) and is the team's main scoring point. Their task in attack is to smash and break through the opposition defence, but they also need to have the ability to flexibly dunk and adjust the ball. On the defensive end, the main attacker is also involved in a pass, that is, receiving the opponent's serve, providing the basis for the team's organized attack. When the all-round main attacker is in the back row, he also needs to take on the task of defending and blocking the net.
The secondary attackers mainly play fast and tactical offenses in the No. 3 position, and their attacks are fast and varied, often playing fast and cross attacks through cooperation with the main attacker or receiver. Secondary attackers are also usually very good at blocking the net, forming an effective defensive barrier in front of the net. Comparatively speaking, the secondary attacker has fewer tasks in the first pass and rarely takes on the role of defending the back row.
The technical characteristics and physical conditions of the two are also different. The main attacker tends to need more height and strength, while the secondary attacker needs more speed and agility. In modern volleyball, with the diversification of tactics, the responsibilities of the main attack and the secondary attack sometimes overlap and adjust, but the basic principles remain the same.