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Thinking of Switching Clubs?

A comprehensive survey of U.S. youth athletes and their families found that the top concerns of players and parents when evaluating a Competitive Club experience was #1 communication and #2 player development. A distant 3rd concern was the desire for a preferred court position. Maverick Volleyball believes that a Canadian survey of what matters to athletes and parents would show a similar outcome.

Youth sports provide many life lessons such as time management, working towards a goal, and the long-term value of hard work and determination.

No matter what the level of play, athletes begin to understand sportsmanship with opportunities to acknowledge wins, as well as dealing with and learning from defeat.

Through competitive-level team sports in particular, teens learn the value of supporting their teammates, and how every role has its own important part to play in team success.

COMMUNICATION

Player evaluations can provide a clear path for athletes to follow as they work to develop their skills and tactical understanding of the sport. Players need to know that verbal communication with coaches is encouraged and that it must follow the rule of two (always in view or earshot of at least one other person).

• Are your coaches providing both individual and team feedback at every practice?
• Are players made aware of what they are doing well and what they need to work on?
• Are evaluations of team dynamics being shared?
• If player assignments are set, are they being completed?
• Does your Club offer formal player evaluations? How often?
• Does your Club offer safe, secure communication methods?
• Do you feel you could safely approach your coach about any concern?

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

• Does your Club focus on the development of a few key players, or is every player challenged to improve to their personal best?
• Does your Club offer mental training to better develop the emotional resilience necessary to handle the stresses of intense competition?
• Does your Club offer physical training sessions for safely building the right muscle groups?
• Does your Club try to instil a “fitness-for-life” attitude in its athletes?
• Are athletes being prepared for the next level of their development?
• Does your Club offer its coaches extra training or encourage higher coaching certification?
• Do coaches encourage players to attend provincial training programs?
• Do coaches help or hinder post secondary recruitment?

COURT POSITION

• Talk to your coach. They may see your physical attributes and skill level differently – or they may not be aware of your desire. Have the discussion before you make a decision, you may be surprised by what you hear.