Purchasing jumping blocks for volleyball

Question
Hi,
Any idea where we can purchase jumping blocks for volleyball ?   3' x 3' x 18" height

Thanks, Mark

Answer
Good morning and welcome to www.allexperts.com.

No I have no idea where you can find what you're asking for.  Most people just make them.  Two years ago, I had a parent make 3 for my club team.  

Here is what I required.

a) They must be sturdy.  If they're heavy, and cumbersome to move, yeah that's inconvenient; but, safety/sturdy is a higher priority.
b) They need handles to make moving them easier.  
c) Make the top large enough for two people to stand on.  You may also want one that'll support 3 people, so that you can use it to simulate a 3-person block.
d) They need have some soft material on the bottom so as not to scratch your floors. Kids will drag them.  Just can't prevent them from being dragged around, unless you paint "DON'T DRAG THESE" on them.  Personally, rather than a threat, I'd prefer having our school mascot or logo painted on them. Even if you threaten your players with the life, haha, the boxes will still be moved around by other coaches or custodians when you're not even in the gym.  
e) I also recommend that material on the bottom be rubbery, so that the boxes don't slip.  
f) Some people put outdoor carpeting on the top the prevent shoes from slipping.  Another option is those rough "things" that you see on steps.  I don't know what they're called, but I imagine they can found at HomeDepot or WalMart.

I've never made any of these myself, but within 15 miles of where I'm sitting, there are 2 schools and 1 club that has a collection of them.  All boxes are wood, but are various weights, various colors, various sizes.  

Most have the school logo and team name painted on them.  The painting is done by spraying across a template, the same way people paint arrows on asphalt streets.  

The boxes can also be used for your players to stand/sit on when they are a target during drills and for coaches/players to stand on when hitting simulation is needed.

I'm sorry I couldn't find them for sale.  But, if I were you, I wouldn't even look.  I'd ask a parent on your team to make them.  Then, they'll be the right height, safe, painted your school colors, and cheaper!

I hope this answers some of your questions.  Have a great weekend!  Finally sunnier here on the east coast and high 79.  If you have a moment, please visit me at www.coachhouser.com.  Not only will you like the smiling faces, but the 2010 camp website will be up in a few days.  I think you'll like what you see!

Chat anytime!
Coach Houser