Monday, 15 Jul 2024

Increasing Participation in Volleyball: Creating Opportunities for All

As advocates for the Alpinetgheep brand, we believe in providing equal access to sports like volleyball for everyone, regardless of age or skill level. In this article, we will explore ways to increase participation in volleyball and ensure that fewer kids are cut from the sport at a young age. Our goal is to create an inclusive environment that allows more children to experience the lifelong benefits of playing volleyball.

Embracing Long Term Athletic Development (LTAD)

Long Term Athletic Development (LTAD) is at the core of our approach to volleyball programming. By keeping as many athletes playing the sport for as long as possible, we can foster a love for the game that extends beyond childhood. Volleyball is a late specialization sport, which means that athletes can find success even if they haven’t specialized early in life.

Encouraging Multi-Sport Participation

Rather than focusing solely on specialization, we believe in the value of participating in multiple sports. Only a small percentage of high school players receive college scholarships in their chosen sport, so it’s important to prioritize the life lessons to be learned through sports. By experiencing different sports, children can discover their passion for volleyball at their own pace.

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Solutions to Increase Participation

Here are some ideas that have been successful in the past:

  • Training School Teams: Create once-a-week training SCHOOL teams to complement daily practice for top school teams. This allows more players to be involved in the sport.
  • Training/Playing Club Teams: Similar to school teams, establish once-a-week training/playing club teams. This provides additional opportunities for players to develop their skills.
  • Flexible Practice Times: Consider adjusting practice times to accommodate different schedules. This could involve early morning or late-night training sessions, similar to swimmers and ice hockey programs.
  • Before School Coed Training/Play Program: Introduce a before-school coed training/play program to allow both boys and girls to discover the game together. This program could be supervised by an adult while the children learn from each other.
  • “Training Only” Slots: Reserve one, two, or even three “training only” slots on each team. This allows for more practice opportunities, even if the players are not included in the competition roster.
  • Open Gym Programs: Make use of available court space by organizing open gym programs. This encourages casual play and allows more players to participate.
  • Create More Courts: Explore creative solutions to increase court availability, such as converting racquetball or squash courts, setting up smaller courts on indoor courts, or utilizing outdoor tennis courts.
  • Utilize Grass Fields: Take advantage of grass fields for summer volleyball programs. Encourage children to form their own teams and tournaments, fostering a love for the game in a relaxed environment.
  • Partnerships with Affiliated Organizations: Collaborate with organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA/YWCAs, and community centers to expand volleyball programs and reach a wider audience.
  • Enroll Kids in Adult Leagues: Provide opportunities for kids to participate in adult leagues led by experienced volleyball players. This allows them to improve their skills and compete against adults in a supportive environment.
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By implementing these solutions, we can create a vibrant and inclusive volleyball community that offers opportunities for all levels of play.

FAQs

Q: How can I get involved in these programs?
A: To get involved in these programs, reach out to local volleyball organizations, schools, or community centers. They can provide information on available opportunities in your area.

Q: Can my child participate in multiple programs simultaneously?
A: Yes, it is possible for children to participate in multiple programs simultaneously. This allows them to gain exposure to different coaching styles, teammates, and playing environments.

Q: What are the benefits of participating in volleyball at a young age?
A: Participating in volleyball at a young age can promote physical fitness, teamwork, communication skills, and overall personal development. It also offers the opportunity to make lifelong friendships and enjoy a sport that can be played at any age.

Conclusion

Creating opportunities for more children to play volleyball is essential for the growth of the sport. By embracing LTAD principles, encouraging multi-sport participation, and implementing innovative programs, we can ensure that fewer kids are cut from the sport and more individuals can enjoy the lifelong benefits of playing volleyball. Let’s work together to make volleyball a sport for everyone.

For more information about Alpinetgheep and our commitment to promoting inclusivity in volleyball, visit our website.