Monday, 15 Jul 2024

North Country Region Introduces the Fall Friendly League

The North Country Region is taking a creative approach to the fall volleyball season with the Fall Friendly Players’ League (FFPL). As a response to the Minnesota State High School League’s decision to move high school volleyball to the spring, the NCR staff came up with the FFPL as a safe and economical opportunity for players to continue participating in volleyball. This article will provide an overview of the league and its key features.

Dates

The FFPL will run from September 8 to October 16. The league’s schedule is designed to accommodate players who wish to participate in other fall leagues on weekends, therefore, league matches will primarily take place on weeknights.

Communication

To ensure that players and coaches are well-informed, the NCR will communicate league updates through social media blasts and direct emails to USA Volleyball junior-age players and Minnesota high school coaches.

Team Registration

Team registration is facilitated through a Google form that requires a designated team “captain” to provide team details such as the team name, high school affiliation (to limit travel), expected roster, and contact information. The aim is to empower players by encouraging team ownership and effective communication. For younger teams, a parent can serve as the contact person. The FFPL is designed to be player-focused and player-run.

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Location, Location, Location

Efforts are being made to secure facilities closest to registered teams. Clubs outside of the Twin Cities are stepping up by securing community and school gyms and serving as site directors. The region encourages these schools and clubs to utilize the league as an opportunity for fundraising through nominal admission fees and concessions.

Individual Registration

Individual participants will also need to register and select their affiliated team to ensure that all players are current USA Volleyball members. The NCR staff will verify USA Volleyball membership. The FFPL is especially welcoming to newcomers or those who recently joined USA Volleyball and will be participating in the league. For current members who experienced a shortened or canceled season, the FFPL offers an excellent opportunity to make the most of their membership until October 31.

Register by Event

Rather than committing to a six-week league, teams have the flexibility to commit and pay for individual events. Each event costs $50 per team and includes two matches with a paid R1 official. The region’s staff will handle scheduling, hiring officials, and maintaining clear communication with site directors.

Economical

For players with a full USAV membership and on a team of 10, the cost per match is $2.50 or $5.00 per event. The region offers full event refunds until the Thursday prior to the event or in the event of a cancellation.

Safety Plans

The NCR has developed detailed safety plans that will be shared with participants and facilities to ensure a safe playing environment for all involved.

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The NCR staff has been working tirelessly to bring the FFPL to life, constantly updating internal processes and addressing challenges along the way. Despite the initial discomfort, they have successfully communicated the region’s policies and rules to all participants during the registration process. With over 100 registered teams and enthusiastic parents and players, the region is hopeful that they can secure enough sites to accommodate the demand. Clear communication regarding payments has been established, and players are advised not to purchase a USA Volleyball membership until sites are confirmed. With membership purchase opening on September 1 and event registration not yet available, the NCR has been able to avoid incorrect purchases and refund complications.

Stay tuned for more updates and join us in sending positive vibes to find suitable gyms for the FFPL. For more information and to get involved, visit Alpinetgheep.com.