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If you’ve lived in Baton Rouge this summer, you already know—the weather has been all over the place. One minute it’s sunny, the next minute the skies open up and your outdoor plans are wrecked. For families with kids in sports, this has meant rescheduled practices, soggy courts, and a whole lot of frustration.

That’s why our CORE Volleyball Fall Program is built different.

Starting August 12th through September 26th, we’ll be running a full 7-week indoor volleyball season at Jefferson Baptist Church. That means no more guessing games, no more rushing home from work just to find out practice is canceled. With our new indoor setup, when we say practice is from 6:00–7:30 PM on Tuesdays and Fridays, we mean it.

Parents have been asking for more consistency, and we listened. We even pushed practice start times back by half an hour to make it more realistic for working families to attend—no more racing the sun or scrambling to beat traffic.

The weather may be unpredictable, but your kid’s volleyball season doesn’t have to be. This fall, we’re offering high-quality training in a controlled indoor space—rain or shine—for just $250 per athlete. And we’ve already locked in our winter season to follow a similar format, so your player can keep building skill and confidence all year round.

Space is limited, and spots are already filling. If you're ready to stop letting the weather run your calendar, now’s the time to register.

Register today. Show up every time. Rain can’t stop us now.

As CORE Volleyball continues to grow, we’re excited to announce the launch of our Fall 2025 Indoor Program, and trust us—this one’s different.

Consistency You Can Count On

If you've been with us during the summer, you know how unpredictable the weather in Baton Rouge can be. Practices get canceled, rescheduled, or cut short due to storms and fading sunlight. But this fall, we’ve got a permanent indoor facility at Jefferson Baptist Church, and that changes everything. No more guessing. Practices will be consistent, rain or shine.

Improved Schedule for Busy Families

We’ve shifted our practice times slightly later to better fit family schedules. Practices now run Tuesdays and Fridays from 6:00–7:30 PM, giving working parents a bit more breathing room without compromising quality training time.

Affordable and Focused

This 7-week program, running August 12 – September 26, is priced at just $250 per athlete—a great value for high-level training in a structured, weather-proof environment. Whether your child is looking to build fundamentals or elevate their game, we’ve created a setting that encourages growth, teamwork, and discipline.

What to Expect

• Experienced Coaches focused on skill development, game IQ, and teamwork
  
  

• Air-conditioned indoor court with full equipment and MIKASA balls provided
  
  

• Small-group atmosphere to ensure individualized attention
  
  

• Consistent practice structure so players know what to expect and how to improve each week
  
  

Who This Program Is For

CORE Volleyball is open to U15 players and is best suited for athletes with a desire to learn, grow, and compete in a positive environment. Whether you’ve been part of our summer beach sessions or you’re brand new to the club, we welcome you to join this exciting next chapter.

📍 Location: Jefferson Baptist Church, 9135 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA
📅 Dates: August 12 – September 26
🕕 Times: Tuesdays & Fridays, 6:00–7:30 PM
💵 Cost: $250 for the full season

Spots Are Limited

Fall is when CORE Volleyball ramps up—and we want your athlete to be a part of it. Reach out now to register or ask any questions you may have. Let’s make this our strongest season yet.

https://sites.google.com/view/corevolleyball/registration

Something I’ve really noticed coaching volleyball is how many coaches don’t actually want to work with beginners.

They’ll say they’re open to all skill levels, but the moment a kid doesn’t know how to bump or can't serve over the net, they check out. You see it in their body language. You hear it in their tone. And honestly, a lot of them just aren’t good at teaching the basics — or they get too frustrated trying. That’s why some clubs feel like they’re only for the “elite.” Everyone else gets left behind.

At CORE Volleyball, that’s not how we do things.

In my program, I have athletes of all skill levels — literally from kids who have never touched a volleyball to players with years of experience. And yeah, that’s not always easy. But instead of pushing beginners aside, we build them into the system.

If a player doesn’t know how to bump? That’s fine. They’ll be on the other side of the net getting reps in while the more advanced players are working on their spikes and sets. That exposure helps them get used to game speed, and they start catching on fast. It’s on us as coaches to structure practices so everyone improves — not just the ones who already look good on the court.

The key is consistent encouragement and repetition. I tell my players all the time:
“If you’re newer, you need to be touching a volleyball every single day.”
Even just 30 minutes of bumping, setting, or spiking against a wall every day will change everything over time.

Because that’s how it works — not everyone starts strong, but anyone can grow with the right plan and support.

That’s the kind of environment I’m building.

💥 Want your athlete to be part of that growth?

Spots are still open!
Sign up now at https://sites.google.com/view/corevolleyball/program-details/registration

Let’s build something great together. 🏐

Knee pain can sneak up on athletes, especially during the later stages of a plyometric training cycle. Whether you're a volleyball player chasing vertical gains or an athlete prepping for explosive power, it's not uncommon to feel that discomfort creep in—especially after weeks of intense jumping, bounding, and loading the knees.

Here’s what you need to know about managing knee pain and staying in the game:

🔹 Why It Happens

Plyometric training is high-impact. The repeated jumping and landing stress the patellar tendon and the surrounding soft tissue. Over time, especially without proper rest or technique, this can lead to patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee), general inflammation, or soreness around the joint.

🔹 Key Management Strategies

1. Modify the Volume
   If you're doing 3–4 sessions per week, reduce it to 2 temporarily. Cut down reps or use a time-based deload (e.g., 1-week lighter load).
   
   

2. Emphasize Eccentric Strength
   Eccentric movements (like slow, controlled squats or step-downs) help rebuild tendon strength. Start with bodyweight and increase load gradually.
   
   

3. Ice After Training
   Apply ice packs for 15–20 minutes post-training to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
   
   

4. Use Compression and Sleeves
   Knee sleeves won’t fix the problem, but they provide warmth, proprioception, and mild support during activity.
   
   

5. Fix Your Mechanics
   Focus on soft landings, knees tracking in line with toes, and minimizing knee valgus (caving in). Video analysis helps here.
   
   

6. Check Your Surface
   Wet or overly soft sand, concrete, or worn-down mats can increase stress. Make sure you're training on a safe surface.
   
   

7. Cross-Train Smart
   Light cycling or swimming can give the knees a break from impact while maintaining conditioning.
   
   

8. Rest When Needed
   Don’t push through pain that’s sharp or worsening. Chronic issues can lead to long-term setbacks.
   
   

🔹 When to Seek Help

If pain persists or worsens even with modifications, consult a sports physical therapist. Early intervention = faster recovery.

🚨 Ready to Jump Higher, Move Better, and Play Stronger This Summer?

Join us at CORE Volleyball Club for our Summer Beach Program 2025! Whether your athlete is building foundational skills or chasing that next-level vertical, we offer elite-level training in a fun, supportive environment. 💪🏽

📅 Limited spots available!
📍 Held locally in Baton Rouge
✅ Open to U15 girls
💥 All skill levels welcome

➡️ Sign up now through our official summer registration page:
👉 Summer Program Sign-Up

Got questions? Come try out a free session or reach out to us directly to learn more. Let’s get your athlete ready to dominate this season!

📅 Event Details

📍 Location: Maison Burbank sand courts
🕠 Time: 5:30–7:00 PM
🎟 Cost: Free
🎉 Who Can Attend: All U15 girls – current club members, private clients, and guests

🏆 Contest Format & Categories

This isn’t just a skills clinic—it’s a friendly competition with awards for standout players across multiple areas. Here’s what we’ll be testing:

1. Serving Challenge

• 10 serves total: 5 short serves + 5 deep serves
  
  

• Points awarded for hitting target zones
  
  

• Focus: Accuracy, consistency, and court awareness
  
  

2. Passing Challenge

• Controlled passes from live tosses
  
  

• Scored based on ball control, form, and ball placement
  
  

• Focus: First contact discipline and focus
  
  

3. Vertical Jump Test

• Measured using Vert Tech
  
  

• Each athlete gets 3 recorded attempts
  
  

• Highest touch wins
  
  

• Focus: Explosiveness and athletic potential
  
  

4. CORE T-Shirt Challenge

• Bonus event to win a limited-edition CORE Volleyball Spring 2025 shirt
  
  

• Volleyball-based relay involving carrying, setting, and passing accuracy
  
  

• Competitive, fun, and full of energy
  
  

🎖 Award Categories

🏅 Best Server
🏅 Passing Champion
🏅 Highest Vertical Jump
🏅 CORE Spirit Award – For hustle, energy, and supporting others
🏅 T-Shirt Challenge Winner

💬 Why This Event Matters

This contest is more than just a test of skills—
It’s a celebration of progress, a chance to bond as a team, and a way to welcome new players into the CORE culture.

If you’re interested in our Summer 2025 program, this is the perfect low-pressure way to get a feel for how we train, how we compete, and how we grow.

And yes—we’ll have snacks, drinks, and a great atmosphere for families.

✅ How to Join

If your daughter wants to attend, just shoot me a message or fill out the form on our website. This is a free event, but I do ask that you RSVP so I can plan accordingly.

Let’s build something great—one rep at a time.
See y’all on April 8th! 🏐

Want to jump higher, move faster, and last longer on the court? It’s not just about practice—it’s about building the right kind of muscle and losing what slows you down.

Why Losing Fat & Building Muscle Helps

Less weight = higher jumps → Fat doesn’t help you jump. Shedding extra weight lets you explode off the ground faster.
More Type II muscle fibers = more power → These fast-twitch fibers control quick jumps, sudden movements, and strong hits.
Better endurance = less fatigue → Carrying excess weight makes you tire out faster. A leaner build helps you last longer in matches.

Why Plyometrics Are Key

Trains fast-twitch muscles → More powerful, quick movements.
Burns fat while building muscle → Gets you lean and strong.
Boosts reaction speed → Helps you move faster on defense.

How to Get There

Strength train smart – Squats, lunges, and deadlifts build explosive strength.
Do more plyos – Box jumps, depth jumps, and broad jumps make your legs react quicker.
Eat for energy – More protein and whole foods, less junk.

Want to jump higher? Train smarter, not just harder.

Sign Up Today – Spots Are Filling Fast!

With limited spots available, now is the time to secure a place in our summer training program. If you’re looking for an affordable, high-quality volleyball training experience, CORE Volleyball Club is the best choice in the area.

📌 Register now: https://sites.google.com/view/corevolleyball/registration
📌 Follow us on Instagram for updates and training tips: https://www.instagram.com/core_vb/
📌 Join our GroupMe community for club announcements: https://groupme.com/join_group/103888199/c3gDYnCc

If you’re looking for a high-quality volleyball training program that delivers results without breaking the bank, CORE Volleyball Club’s summer program is the best choice in the area. With top-tier coaching, a strong focus on player development, and inflation-proof pricing, we offer an experience that combines affordability with high-level training. Here’s why our program stands out:

1. Unmatched Value for the Cost

Other volleyball programs in the area can cost over $2,000 for a season, making club volleyball inaccessible for many families. Our summer program is designed to be affordable while maintaining elite-level training. At just $300 for a 9-week program (18 sessions), we provide an opportunity for athletes to grow without financial strain. Plus, with our referral program, families can even earn 50% off or a completely free season when they bring in new players!

2. Flexible, Accessible Training Options

We know summer schedules can be packed with vacations and other commitments, so we offer a flexible structure that allows athletes to maximize their training without overcommitting. Our 5:30-7:00 PM practice times make it easy for families to plan around work and other summer activities.

3. Trial Sessions Available – Come See for Yourself!

Not sure if our program is the right fit? We offer free trial sessions so new athletes can experience our training before committing. No pressure—just an opportunity to see what makes us different.

Sign Up Today – Spots Are Filling Fast!

With limited spots available, now is the time to secure a place in our summer training program. If you’re looking for an affordable, high-quality volleyball training experience, CORE Volleyball Club is the best choice in the area.

📌 Register now: https://sites.google.com/view/corevolleyball/registration
📌 Follow us on Instagram for updates and training tips: https://www.instagram.com/core_vb/
📌 Join our GroupMe community for club announcements: https://groupme.com/join_group/103888199/c3gDYnCc

Reaching impressive vertical heights in volleyball is often seen as a blend of natural talent and dedicated training. While genetics play a role, athletes like Isaiah Espinoza, a 5'10" volleyball player with a verified 50-inch vertical jump, demonstrate what's possible with commitment and the right approach. ​

The Role of Genetics vs. Training

Genetics can influence muscle composition and overall athletic potential. However, targeted training can significantly enhance one's vertical leap. Many athletes have transformed their performance through structured programs focusing on strength, flexibility, and explosive power.​

Personal Journey: From 20-Inch to 30-Inch Vertical

Starting with a sub-20-inch vertical, I dedicated myself to improving this aspect of my game. Through consistent training, I've achieved a 30-inch vertical at 194 pounds. With continued effort and conditioning, aiming for a 36-inch vertical is within reach.​

Achieving a 40-Inch Vertical: Is It Possible?

With proper training, reaching a 40-inch vertical is an attainable goal for many athletes. Key components include:​

• Strength Training: Building foundational strength in the lower body.​

• Plyometrics: Enhancing explosive power through exercises like squat jumps and box jumps. 

• Flexibility and Mobility: Ensuring muscles and joints function optimally to maximize jump potential.​

Join Our Summer Program

Our upcoming summer program offers specialized training to improve vertical leap and overall athletic performance. While the spring session is halfway through, it's never too late to join. We also provide private coaching tailored to individual needs.​

Connect with Us

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/core_vb/

• GroupMe: https://groupme.com/join_group/103888199/c3gDYnCc

As we progress through this spring volleyball season, I’ve realized just how much of an impact daylight savings time has on our practice schedule. While we’ve managed to adjust accordingly, it’s become clear that starting the season earlier in the spring—before daylight savings kicks in—creates challenges with limited daylight and scheduling conflicts.

Why Daylight Savings Matters for Spring Sports

Daylight savings time plays a crucial role in outdoor sports, especially beach volleyball. With sunset occurring earlier in the evening before the time change, practices have to start earlier to ensure enough light for effective training. However, many parents and players have expressed difficulty making it to practices that start at 5:00 PM due to work, school, and other commitments.

A Better Schedule for Future Spring Seasons

After reflecting on this, I’ve decided that for future spring seasons, I will likely adjust our start date to better align with daylight savings time. Instead of kicking off in early spring when daylight is still limited, I’m considering starting the season after Mardi Gras and daylight savings time to give players more time to adjust and allow for later practice times that fit more schedules.

By starting later in the season, we can: ✅ Take advantage of longer daylight hours for evening practices.
✅ Avoid early-season scheduling conflicts with Mardi Gras and other spring events.
✅ Make practice times more accessible for families with busy schedules.
✅ Ensure that players get the most out of their training sessions without rushing due to fading light.

Looking Ahead

This season has been a great learning experience, and I appreciate all the feedback from parents and players. Moving forward, I’ll be making adjustments to ensure that everyone has the best possible experience with our volleyball program. If you have any thoughts or suggestions on scheduling, feel free to reach out—I’d love to hear your input!

Thanks for being a part of this journey, and I look forward to making next season even better!

Interested in the club? Have questions? Feel free to reach out! We’re happy to discuss how we can make this work for your child.

📌 Contact us today to sign up or schedule a trial session! 📌 Follow us on Instagram for updates and training tips: https://www.instagram.com/core_vb/ 📌 Join our GroupMe community to stay connected: https://groupme.com/join_group/103888199/c3gDYnCc

1. Volleyball Development Happens at Every Stage

No matter when your child joins, they will still gain valuable skills, experience, and confidence on the court. Our practices are designed to help players of all levels progress at their own pace, so even if they’re starting later, they’ll have plenty of time to improve.

2. A Welcoming and Supportive Community

Our volleyball club isn’t just about competition—it’s about creating a positive and encouraging environment where players form friendships, work as a team, and enjoy the sport. New members are always welcomed with open arms, and current players love meeting new teammates.

3. Flexible Options to Make It Work

We understand that joining mid-season might feel like a logistical challenge, which is why we offer flexible payment options. That way, your child can still get the full experience without worrying about having missed a few sessions.

Join Us Today – It’s Never Too Late!

If your child is excited about volleyball and wants to improve their skills, there’s no reason to wait! We would love to have them join us for a session and see firsthand how much fun and growth they can experience.

Interested? Have questions? Feel free to reach out! We’re happy to discuss how we can make this work for your child.

📌 Contact us today to sign up or schedule a trial session! 📌 Follow us on Instagram for updates and training tips: https://www.instagram.com/core_vb/ 📌 Join our GroupMe community to stay connected: https://groupme.com/join_group/103888199/c3gDYnCc

Plyometrics, often referred to as "jump training," is an essential component of volleyball conditioning. This form of exercise focuses on explosive movements that enhance power, agility, and overall athletic performance. Volleyball players heavily rely on these abilities for jumping, quick lateral movements, and rapid directional changes.

Why Plyometrics Matter in Volleyball

Volleyball is a sport that requires repetitive explosive actions, including jumping for spikes, blocking at the net, and quick dives for defensive plays. Plyometric exercises help athletes improve in the following areas:

1. Increased Vertical Jump

   • A higher vertical leap is crucial for effective spiking and blocking. Plyometric drills such as box jumps, depth jumps, and tuck jumps train the lower body to generate maximum force quickly, leading to an improved jump height.

2. Faster Reaction Time

   • Volleyball is a game of split-second decisions. Plyometric training enhances neuromuscular coordination, improving a player's ability to react swiftly to unpredictable plays and quick ball movements.

3. Improved Explosive Power

   • Exercises like squat jumps, lateral bounds, and medicine ball slams help build explosive strength in the legs and core. This directly translates to more powerful attacks and faster, more controlled defensive movements.

Best Plyometric Exercises for Volleyball Players

• Box Jumps: Develop explosive leg power and increase jump height.

• Depth Jumps: Improve reactivity and quick jump responses.

• Lateral Bounds: Enhance side-to-side movement for better defensive plays.

Take Your Game to the Next Level!

If you're serious about improving your volleyball performance, join our volleyball club today! Our training sessions focus on skill development, strength, and agility to help players reach their full potential.

In addition to group training, I also offer private coaching for players looking for one-on-one skill development and personalized training plans. (contact 404-952-3292)

📌 Follow us on Instagram for training tips and updates: https://www.instagram.com/core_vb/
📌 Join our GroupMe community to stay connected: https://groupme.com/join_group/103888199/c3gDYnCc

Don't miss out on the opportunity to train with dedicated athletes and take your volleyball game to the next level. Contact me today to get started!

The beginning of a new volleyball season is always exciting, and at CORE Volleyball Club, we’re gearing up for another great training period. As we move into spring training, players have the perfect opportunity to lay the groundwork for a successful summer and beyond. Whether you're just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, training early in the year gives you an edge over the competition.

Why Spring Training Matters

Many athletes wait until summer to start playing volleyball seriously, but by then, they’re already behind those who began training in the spring. Spring provides the perfect time to focus on fundamentals, improve technique, and develop the consistency needed for high-level play. By training now, players can refine their skills and build confidence before summer leagues, camps, and tournaments begin.

For athletes looking to take their game to the next level, private coaching can provide personalized training in a focused setting. Whether it’s refining technique, improving reaction speed, or working on a specific position, one-on-one training allows for deeper skill development tailored to each player’s needs.

At CORE Volleyball Club, I offer private coaching sessions that give players extra attention and structured drills to enhance their game. This is especially valuable for athletes who want to:

• Correct technical mistakes that may be holding them back

• Improve their defensive skills and court movement

• Gain more game-like repetitions outside of standard practices

Whether you’re looking to build a strong foundation in volleyball or push your game to the next level, spring training is the key to long-term success. At CORE Volleyball Club, we’re committed to helping players develop in a supportive and structured environment.

✅ Spring Training Begins: Feb 10th (subject to weather conditions)
✅ Location: Maison Baton Rouge
✅ Limited Spots Available—Sign Up Today!

https://sites.google.com/view/corevolleyball/registration

Sports are an incredible way to stay active, build skills, and form lasting friendships, but let’s be honest—many sports can get insanely expensive. Take badminton, for example. A single shuttlecock can cost around $2, and if you’re playing competitively, that shuttle might last just one game. Tennis isn’t much better, with rackets, stringing costs, and constant ball replacements. And then there’s golf, where between clubs, balls, and course fees, you’re looking at a significant financial investment just to play regularly.

That’s where volleyball stands out. It’s one of the few sports that requires a minimal upfront investment—all you really need is a good-quality volleyball and a place to play. Whether you’re playing on a court, in the sand, or even in a backyard, volleyball is accessible to almost anyone. Unlike other sports that require ongoing costs for equipment replacements, volleyball is low-maintenance and budget-friendly until you reach the club or college level.

At CORE Volleyball Club, we believe that everyone should have access to high-quality coaching and a supportive volleyball community—without breaking the bank. Our program is designed to provide affordable training while still offering top-tier instruction. In these inflation-ridden times, we know that sports can feel like a luxury, but volleyball remains one of the best and most affordable ways to stay active, have fun, and build lasting friendships.

Beyond affordability, volleyball is also one of the best sports for overall health. It encourages movement, agility, coordination, and endurance, all while being incredibly fun. And let’s face it—staying active is so much easier when you’re playing a sport you love, surrounded by people who make it enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a sport that’s easy to get into, budget-friendly, and keeps you engaged, volleyball is the way to go. And at CORE Volleyball Club, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

📅 Join us for our upcoming training sessions!
📍 Location: Maison Baton Rouge
💻 Sign Up Here: https://sites.google.com/view/corevolleyball/registration

Baton Rouge recently experienced a historic snowfall, recording 7.6 inches—the most significant in over a century.

brproud.com

This rare winter event has transformed our familiar landscapes into a winter wonderland, but for volleyball enthusiasts, it poses the question: How can we continue to play our favorite sport in such cold conditions? 

Tips for Playing Volleyball in Cold Weather:

1. Layer Up: Wear moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away, add insulating layers for warmth, and top it off with a windproof jacket.

2. Protect Your Extremities: Use gloves with good grip, thermal socks, and beanies or headbands to keep your hands, feet, and head warm.

3. Warm-Up Thoroughly: Engage in dynamic stretches and light cardio to increase blood flow and reduce the risk of injury.

4. Choose the Right Footwear: Opt for shoes with good traction to navigate snowy or icy surfaces safely.

Indoor Volleyball Options in Baton Rouge:

If braving the cold isn't appealing, Baton Rouge offers several indoor facilities where you can enjoy volleyball year-round:

• Red Storm Volleyball Club at Sportsplex: As the largest indoor volleyball facility in Louisiana, Sportsplex provides ample space for players of all levels.

• BREC Adult Volleyball Open Gym: Offering coed volleyball sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, it's a great way to stay active indoors.

• LSU's Student Recreation Center: With multiple indoor courts, it's an excellent venue for volleyball enthusiasts.

Stay Active and Connected:

While the snow may be a temporary visitor, your passion for volleyball doesn't have to take a backseat. Embrace the unique experience of playing in the snow, or take advantage of the indoor facilities Baton Rouge has to offer.

Join Us at CORE Volleyball Club:

As we look forward to warmer days, consider joining the CORE Volleyball Club to continue honing your skills and enjoying the game. Our programs are designed for players of all levels, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and fun.

Sign Up Today!

Don't let the cold keep you from the court. Sign up for spring sessions today!

CORE Volleyball Club is more than just a training program—it’s a community where young athletes can build confidence, develop teamwork skills, and discover their love for the game. Here’s what sets us apart from other volleyball clubs in Baton Rouge:

1. Beach Volleyball Excellence

   • At CORE Volleyball Club, we take pride in offering high level beach volleyball training. Playing on a real sand court helps young players improve their agility, balance, and coordination to better prepare them for indoor play.

2. Expert Coaching

   • Our experienced coaches bring years of expertise and a passion for helping kids succeed. Whether your child is a beginner or a seasoned player, we tailor our coaching to meet their skill level.

3. A Safe and Supportive Environment

   • Located at the Maison Baton Rouge apartment complex near the LSU campus, our club offers a safe and secure space for practice with police officers patrolling at all times.

4. Programs for All Levels

   • From basic volleyball fundamentals to advanced techniques, we have programs designed to help every player reach their potential.

Final Thoughts

Joining a volleyball club is more than just playing a sport—it's about building lifelong skills, making friends, and growing in confidence. At CORE Volleyball Club, we’re proud to provide Baton Rouge families with a unique and supportive environment where kids can thrive both on and off the court.

Whether your child is new to volleyball or looking to sharpen their skills, our programs are designed to meet them where they are and help them reach their full potential. With expert coaching, a professional beach volleyball setup, and a focus on fun and teamwork, CORE Volleyball Club is the perfect choice for young athletes in Baton Rouge.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of something special—join us at CORE Volleyball Club today and help your child develop skills and memories that will last a lifetime.

If you’re ready to take your skills to the next level, Join our spring program today!

Making a middle school volleyball team is an exciting opportunity to develop skills, make friends, and grow as an athlete. As an assistant middle school coach, I want to share some key tips to help you stand out during tryouts and maximize your chances of earning a spot on the team.

1. Show Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm is one of the most important qualities coaches look for during tryouts. Even if your fundamentals aren’t perfect, your eagerness to learn, positive attitude, and hustle on the court can make a big impression. Always:

• Cheer on other players.

• Stay engaged and focused, even when you’re not directly involved in the drill.

• Listen carefully to instructions and give your best effort in every activity.

2. Build Strong Fundamentals

While enthusiasm is key, having some volleyball basics in your skillset can give you a competitive edge. Work on:

• Passing: Practice bumping consistently to a target.

• Serving: Focus on overhand serves, but a strong underhand serve is a good start.

• Setting: Try to deliver clean, controlled sets to hitters.

At CORE Volleyball Club, we emphasize building these fundamentals through quality coaching that makes players stand out during tryouts. Our affordable programs are designed to give young athletes the skills and confidence they need to succeed.

3. Communicate on the Court

Communication is crucial in volleyball, and coaches pay attention to players who:

• Call the ball loudly and clearly (“Mine!” or “Got it!”).

• Support teammates with encouragement (“Nice pass!”).

• Ask questions when unsure about drills or instructions.

Even if your skills aren’t polished, good communication shows leadership and teamwork.

4. Demonstrate Coachability

Coaches value players who are eager to learn and improve. Demonstrate coachability by:

• Being open to feedback and applying it quickly.

• Asking thoughtful questions to clarify techniques.

• Showing improvement over the course of tryouts.

Remember, coaches can teach skills, but a willingness to learn starts with you.

5. Join a Training Program Like CORE Volleyball Club

Joining a club like CORE Volleyball can give you a significant advantage. CORE Volleyball provides:

• Affordable, high-quality coaching to build strong fundamentals.

• Focused skill development to help players prepare for middle school or competitive club tryouts.

• A great starting point to transition to more competitive local clubs that participate in tournaments.

By training with CORE Volleyball, you’ll not only improve your skills but also gain confidence that sets you apart during tryouts.

6. Be Versatile

Middle school volleyball teams often need players who can adapt to multiple positions. Show your willingness to try new roles, whether it’s setting, hitting, or playing defense. Versatility makes you a valuable asset to the team.

7. Stay Active and Conditioned

Physical fitness can help you stand out by showing you’re prepared for the demands of volleyball. Focus on:

• Building agility and quickness.

• Strengthening your core and legs for stability and power.

• Practicing jump exercises to improve vertical leap.

8. Focus on What You Can Control

Remember that you can’t control who else tries out or what the coach’s final decisions will be. What you can control is your:

• Effort: Always give 100%, even in warm-ups.

• Attitude: Stay positive and encourage others.

• Preparation: Arrive on time, dressed appropriately, and ready to play.

Final Thoughts

Making a middle school volleyball team is about more than just skill—it’s about showing passion, teamwork, and a willingness to grow. Joining a program like CORE Volleyball Club can be a game-changer, providing the foundation you need to shine during tryouts and beyond. Whether your goal is to make your school’s team or transition to a competitive club, CORE Volleyball is here to support your journey.

If you’re ready to take your skills to the next level, Join our spring program today!