If a team plays with fewer than six players, what happens each time a vacant position rotates to serve?

When a team plays with fewer than six players, the rules of volleyball dictate that any time a vacant position rotates to serve, a loss of rally or point is awarded to the opposing team. This is due to the fact that every player must serve in their turn, and with a vacancy, the team cannot fulfill the requirements for that rotation. When the serve comes around to the position that is unoccupied, the opposing team is rewarded with a point, effectively penalizing the team for not having the full roster to participate in the match.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the official rules. A free serve is not granted in such situations, as the game is meant to be played with full participation from both teams. Continuing the game without penalty also does not adhere to the rules, as there is indeed a consequence for not having a full roster. Lastly, the notion that each position must serve twice does not apply since the rules do not allow for serving from a vacant position; it transitions immediately to a point for the opposing team.