The name of the hit used to begin each point in volleyball is called a serve. The serve is the action that starts the rally by putting the ball into play from behind the end line, sending it over the net to the opponents' side. A special type of serve that results directly in a point without the receiving team touching the ball is called an ace

. In volleyball terminology, the serve is distinct from other hits such as attacks or spikes, which are offensive plays during the rally. The serve initiates the point, and the receiving team must then pass or set the ball to continue the play