From John Thomas,
Your Guide to Volleyball.
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One important aspect of coaching is recognizing the momentum of the game. Long strings of points can be encouraging for the team winning the points. But, they can be disastrous for the team on the other end. A well-placed time out can be the key to squashing the momentum of the opposing team.

One such instance would be a particularly effective server scoring a few aces in a row. A well-trained player can stay in a groove serving for quite some time. This is because serving is a skill which is based on habit, routine, and rhythm. Breaking the rhythm of the server will force them to take the time to analyze their movements, often leading to a mistake on the next serve.

Also, using a time out after a long rally which was lost can be an effective tool to reset the players. Most players are worn out by long rallies so a time out to allow them to catch their breath will be welcome. It also allows them to leave the rally behind. Losing a long rally can be incredibly discouraging. Use the time out to draw their attention to something else, completely unrelated to the rally. Never let a team dwell on its mistakes.

As effective as a well-placed time out can be to ruin the other team's momentum, a poorly timed one can be just as damaging to your own teams momentum. As a coach you must be able to recognize the times when you need to step back and simply allow your team to play.

Momentum and rhythm are very delicate tools but incredibly effective once you are able to manipulate them. As a coach, you can not play the game for the players but, much of the time, you can be equally influential in gaining a victory.