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Writer's pictureAlison Kay Furno

Considering Club Volleyball? Here’s What You Need to Know

As a parent, deciding the best path for your kid's athletic development can be challenging. If your child is passionate about volleyball, you might be weighing the options between club volleyball and recreational leagues like those offered by the YMCA and NYS. Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed decision. On average, kids start trying volleyball anywhere from 6+ years old. They generally can start joining a team by 8 or 9 on a recreational league or on a club team.



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Club Volleyball Overview:

·         Higher Level of Competition: Club volleyball is known for its competitive nature. Teams participate in regional and national tournaments (depending on the team you make), providing players with exposure to high-level play and the opportunity to compete against some of the best athletes in the sport.

·         Intensive Training: Club volleyball programs typically offer more rigorous training schedules, including multiple practices per week, specialized coaching, and sometimes even strength and conditioning sessions. This can significantly enhance your child’s skills and overall athleticism.

·         Professional Coaching: Coaches in club volleyball often have extensive experience and certifications, ensuring that players receive higher-quality instruction and mentorship. This is not always the case, that’s why its important to do your research on volleyball clubs in your area, ask other parents for recommendations, and do lessons or clinics with the coaches that are in your child’s age group.

·         College Recruitment: For those aspiring to play volleyball at the collegiate level, club volleyball provides greater visibility to college scouts and recruiters. Many clubs have established relationships with college programs, which can be beneficial during the recruitment process. You might not be thinking about this yet, but kids start playing CLUB volleyball at age 8-9 years old, depending on skill level and interest. Most major clubs start with 10 and under teams.


YMCA and Recreational Leagues Overview:

·         Easy and Relaxed Environment: Recreational leagues like those at the YMCA focus on participation. They are designed to be welcoming to players of all skill levels, making them a great option for beginners or those looking to enjoy the sport without the pressure of intense competition.

·         Balanced Schedule: These leagues typically have a more relaxed schedule, with fewer practices and games. This is great if you are not worried about competitive environments currently. This can be ideal for families looking to balance sports with other activities and commitments.

·         Cost-Effective, Shorter Seasons: Recreational leagues are generally 1–2-month commitments, and more affordable than club volleyball. This makes the recreational league option accessible to a broader range of families, especially when you are not sure if your child is interested in the sport yet.


Making the Decision

When deciding between club volleyball and recreational leagues, consider your child’s goals, commitment level, and the family’s schedule. If your child is serious about volleyball and aims to play at a higher level, club volleyball might be the right choice. However, if the focus is on simply having fun and trying out the sport, recreational leagues like those at the YMCA or NYS can provide a fulfilling experience.


As a volleyball coach myself, I would choose recreational if you have never played and don't know if you want to play. If you know your kid wants to play competitive, you can find a way to play club and overcome any hurdles you may face along the way. There are scholarship programs, fundraising and other options if cost is an issue. I'd recommend trying out your local clubs by going to clinics and getting more information.


Ultimately, the best choice is one that aligns with your child’s interests and your family’s goals. Whether they’re hitting in a high-stakes tournament or enjoying a friendly game at the local gym, the most important thing is that they’re having fun and growing through the sport.

 

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