What is the primary role of an outside hitter in volleyball?

The primary role of an outside hitter in volleyball is to attack and score points. Outside hitters are key players in the offensive strategy of a team. They are positioned on the left side of the net and are responsible for hitting the ball over the net to score points, especially from set plays. Their role is critical because they often receive sets from the setter and take powerful swings at the ball to either drive it down into the opponent's court or strategically place it to find openings in the defense.

In addition to their scoring duties, outside hitters must also be versatile, contributing to defense and passing when not attacking. Their ability to perform well in various aspects of the game, including receiving serves and digging defensive plays, makes them valuable on the court. This multifaceted role distinguishes them from other positions, like setters, whose main job is to deliver accurate sets, or middle blockers, who primarily focus on blocking the opponents' attacks.