April 18, 2019 – The National Collegiate Volleyball Federation (NCVF) National Championships at the Colorado Convention Center kicked off with more than 430 women’s and men’s collegiate club volleyball teams playing on 63 courts. This event showcases the passion and dedication of these athletes, who often go unnoticed compared to varsity-level teams.
Club volleyball offers a unique opportunity for players who may not have made it to the varsity level or were not aware of the club volleyball option. It provides a stress-relieving environment, a sense of community, and the chance to make new friends. It’s like a mini-vacation from the demands of school, allowing players to focus on their education while still pursuing their love for the sport.
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We spoke with several players to get their perspectives on competing in club volleyball:
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University of Maryland’s Princess Achobang appreciates the stress-relieving aspect of club volleyball. She enjoys the competitive nature of the sport and the strong bond she shares with her teammates. Making new friends and experiencing a sense of family at the tournaments adds to the overall enjoyment. Achobang’s decision to pursue club volleyball instead of varsity-level play was driven by a desire to prioritize her education.
For Zoey Stump, the appeal of club volleyball lies in its perfect balance between competition and flexibility. It provides a high level of play without the overwhelming demands of a varsity sport. Stump had the opportunity to play at several DIII schools but opted for a bigger university experience that included other sports like football and basketball. She appreciates the balance club volleyball offers, allowing her to excel academically.
Taylor Covington from Missouri State University values club volleyball as a means to stay active and relieve stress. Unlike college athletes, club players have more freedom to focus on academics without the same level of commitment. The sport also provides an avenue to meet new people, expanding social circles and broadening horizons.
Similarly, Emma Borcherding, also from Missouri State University, echoes Covington’s sentiments about the positive social aspects of club volleyball. Both players find fulfillment in the combination of physical activity and building connections with their fellow athletes. Balancing academics and athletics is essential for them.
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For Keenan Eadelman from Michigan State University, club volleyball is an opportunity to continue playing a sport he loves. Since high school volleyball was not an option, joining a club team allowed him to pursue his passion. While playing at the varsity level might have been a consideration, Eadelman prioritized his education and found club volleyball to be a perfect fit for his goals.
Finally, Jordan Hodges from Lewis University emphasizes the incredible people he has met through club volleyball. The sport has provided him with an amazing network of friends and a supportive community. Hodges started playing in high school and has been hooked ever since. While he initially considered trying out for Lewis’s varsity men’s program, he recognized the need for further training to meet the requirements. Improving his skills over the summer became a goal he is determined to achieve.
Club volleyball serves as a platform for players to continue their athletic journeys while maintaining a healthy balance with their education. It fosters camaraderie, personal growth, and a love for the game. It’s an opportunity that shouldn’t be underestimated, offering players an experience that goes beyond the courts.
FAQs
Q: How many teams are participating in the NCVF National Championships?
A: Over 430 women’s and men’s collegiate club volleyball teams are competing in the NCVF National Championships.
Q: What makes club volleyball different from varsity-level play?
A: Club volleyball provides a more flexible environment, allowing players to focus on their education while still enjoying a high level of competition. Unlike varsity-level play, club volleyball offers a stress-relieving experience without the same level of commitment.
Q: Are players able to make new friends through club volleyball?
A: Yes, club volleyball tournaments provide a great opportunity for players to meet new people and expand their social circles. The sense of community and the bonds formed among teammates contribute to the overall enjoyment of the sport.
Summary
The NCVF National Championships in Denver offer a platform for collegiate club volleyball teams to showcase their skills and passion for the sport. It gives players who may not have reached the varsity level an opportunity to continue competing while prioritizing their education. Club volleyball provides a stress-relieving environment, a sense of community, and the chance to make new friends. The balance between competition and flexibility appeals to many players, allowing them to excel academically while still enjoying the sport they love. It’s a unique experience that fosters personal growth, camaraderie, and a lifelong love for the game.
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