ATLANTA, Ga. (November 19, 2024) - It is no secret that many dream of one day playing professional volleyball. This article provides a complete roadmap to the big leagues with actionable advice for players of all ages, from elementary school through college to increase their chances of reaching the professional level.
Section 1: Laying the Foundation (Elementary School)
|
Key Facts |
|
|---|---|
|
Skills to Develop: |
Passing, Setting, Serving |
|
Steps to Take: |
Develop Basic Skills, Participate in Youth Clinics & Camps, Make It Fun |
|
What Coaches Value: |
Basic motor skills, positive attitude, eagerness to learn, ability to follow simple instructions |
When a player is first beginning their volleyball career, the key is to develop an early love for the game. We encourage players at this age to focus on fun drills to learn basic fundamental skills like passing, setting, and serving. Developing hand-eye coordination and ball control skills is an important part of the developmental process.
This is also a great age to participate in youth clinics and camps, which will give professional instruction on basic volleyball skills, young players can learn fundamental skills in a low-pressure and fun environment. To reiterate, at this age, the most important aspect is to make volleyball a fun and positive experience for the player. Celebrating small milestones such as achieving a set number of successful passes with the player boosts confidence and deepens their sense of accomplishment.
Insider Tips:
At this age, coaches are looking for player engagement, listening ability, and a willingness to practice. Showing an early interest in developing hand-eye coordination, agility, and confidence will set a young athlete apart.
The support of family is crucial. Coaches look for supporting families that encourage positive experiences and sportsmanship rather than high-stakes competition. Parents who engage positively with coaches can also make a lasting impression on youth clubs.
Section 2: Building Blocks for Success (Middle School)
|
Key Facts |
|
|---|---|
|
Skills to Develop: |
Passing, Setting, Serving, Hitting, Defense, & Game Awareness |
|
Steps to Take: |
Refine Technique, Join School or Club Teams, Build Volleyball IQ |
|
What Coaches Value: |
Work ethic, skill development, game awareness, positive team attitude |
As the player moves into middle school, it becomes time to commit to refining technique and fitness. They should dedicate time each week to skills such as passing, setting, serving, digging, and hitting. For example, they may hit against a wall to improve their ball control. Starting fitness training at this age to develop strength in the legs and core along with stretching routines to build flexibility will lessen the risk of injury and improve the skill of the player.
Players should also try out for school or club teams. Many clubs have open gym sessions where the player can get used to playing with others, and practice agility drills and key volleyball skills before tryouts. In choosing a club, research the teams that prioritize the development of their players, even if it is not the most competitive. The experience of more playing time and repetition will be worth it.
Lastly, players should focus on building their volleyball IQ. Watching matches online or attending local college or professional games is a great practice, and the player should take the time to note how the players move, position themselves, and communicate. The players should also familiarize themself with the basics such as positions on the court, rotations, and the rules, so they understand the flow of the game.
Insider Tips:
Clubs at this level prioritize consistency. Players who can consistently land overhand serves, pass accurately, and communicate on the court are well on their way.
Coaches are highly interested in the player’s effort level and coachability. Middle school is the age when coaches start noticing players who are eager to improve and can take constructive criticism well. Game intelligence becomes crucial, as players need to understand court positioning, communicating with teammates, and how to read the game in real time. Players who study games, practice watching plays, and understand how to position themselves on the court are often given preference.
Section 3: Crafting a Competitive Edge (High School)
|
Key Facts |
|
|---|---|
|
Skills to Develop: |
Advanced Serving (Jump Serve), Offensive and Defensive Techniques, Quick Decision-Making |
|
Steps to Take: |
Advance Training, Compete in Tournaments, Begin College Recruitment |
|
What Coaches Value: |
Athleticism, technical skills, game strategy, adaptability, leadership |
In high school, it becomes time to commit to advanced, year-round training following a specialized fitness program. Consider joining a club team that has focused training sessions 3-4 times per week focusing on strength, speed, and advanced skills. Work with volleyball specific trainers or follow a conditioning program to build power, agility, and endurance.
At this stage, the focus should shift from a club that develops the player to an elite club that attracts college scouts and plays in exposure events. Events such as Junior Nationals or regional qualifiers are great for exposure. Competition with teams outside of the area increases the chances of a college or professional scout being at the matches, and exposes the player to different playstyles.
At this stage, the college recruitment process is critical. We recommend building a 3-5 minute highlight reel to showcase any impressive plays and displays of athletic ability. It also is good practice to identify colleges aligning with your academic and athletic goals, and email coaches with a short introduction, why you are interested in their program, academic and athletic stats, and a highlight reel.
Many of these colleges will host volleyball camps or showcases, and participating in these is a great way to be seen by coaches while gaining insights into their program, facilities, and campus life. Remember to maintain a strong GPA in high school, as most colleges have GPA requirements for athletes. Consider taking AP or dual enrollment courses to eliminate difficult courses in college, leaving more time to focus on volleyball. Strong standardized test scores can also create more scholarship opportunities.
Insider Tips:
College and club scouts watch for both technical mastery and mental toughness. At the high school level, it is essential to develop mastery of jump serves, strong blocks, quick transitions, and setting variations. However, the player that stands out to recruiters is the one who is able to stay calm and adapt under pressure.
A clear competitive spirit and teamwork makes players stand out. Coaches and scouts want players who show resilience in tough games and support their teammates regardless of their own performance during that game.
Physical fitness is a non-negotiable at this stage. Players should have strong conditioning, agility, and core strength. Regularly working with a personal trainer or following a volleyball-specific workout routine can separate those who make it to the next level from those only concerned about technical mastery.
Section 4: Stepping into the Big Leagues (College & Beyond)
|
Key Facts |
|
|---|---|
|
Skills to Develop: |
Elite Fitness, High-Level Strategy, Positional Mastery |
|
Steps to Take: |
Excel in College, Network, Pursue Professional and International Opportunities |
|
What Coaches Value: |
Competitive consistency, high-level adaptability, professional mindset, leadership qualities |
In college, it is critical to take full advantage of the facilities, training, and coaching. This is the time to remain coachable and improve any weaker areas. Professional volleyball players are defined not only by their areas of excellence but in the lacking of areas of weakness. Seek mentorship from alumni players to learn how to best take advantage of the college program, and attend workshops and panels where possible with speakers from the professional volleyball world.
Look for opportunities to try out for professional teams and speak to scouts when possible. Maintain professional social media platforms, as coaches and scouts are increasingly relying on social media to assess a player’s potential and dedication.
Insider Tips:
The aim of the game in college and beyond is consistency. Players need to execute both basic and advanced skills without fail, regardless of the game’s intensity. Consistency in training, game performance, and mental focus is critical.
It is the more subtle qualities that set elite players apart, such as their leadership skills and ability to adapt to various situations. Scouts are instructed to find players who don’t just play well but also help their team by providing strategic insights, motivating others, and adapting to different dynamics as they occur. The team-first mentality is highly valued by professional teams. Players who are not only skilled but also have a reputation for discipline, professionalism, and humility are fast-tracked in recruitment. At the professional level, you are truly an ambassador for the sport of volleyball and become a role model for young people, which is why professional teams are highly concerned with finding players with these attributes.
Next Steps: Attend a Volleyball Clinic with the Atlanta Vibe
About the Atlanta Vibe
The Atlanta Vibe is one of eight teams competing in the Professional Volleyball Federation’s historic second season in 2025. As Atlanta’s professional women’s indoor volleyball team and the city’s second fully professional women’s sports team, the Vibe continues to build a legacy in women’s sports. For more information, visit atlantavibe.com.
Follow us on Social