QuestionMy 11 y/o daughter has just completed beginner volleyball lessons through a club. She is joining a team with another club that has a 12's team. The lessons taught her the basics of setting, passing, etc, but no actual games were played. My question is what should she expect as a new team member and what type of abilities are expected of a new volleyball player? This 12's team is considered a beginner team. I am new to the volleyball world so would appreciate any advice or tips. Thanks for your help.
AnswerJesse,
This is hard for me to answer. Some states are light years ahead of others so a beginner club team in California would be almost a seasoned club team from New York City.
I would guess that serving (overhand) and passing are a must. If she can do those two things she will fit in.
I coached younger girls (in New York City) and those were the things we looked for. If a girl had any of ten other skills we were thrilled.
As far as club advice. Make sure it is fun for both you and your daughter. There is a big money and time commitments to the better clubs. Let the coaches coach. 5 years from now when you are a 5th year club Mom, you are still a Mom and that is entirely different from coaching. If your daughter is a great passer she will probably play in college, somewhere, make sure she understands the importance of passing. Finally, let her play on a club that fits her needs. If she wants to set and the club she is on now does not need her to set then find a club that needs a setter.
E-mail me at
[email protected] if you have any other questions.
Steve