How to Join a Volleyball Club? (Step by Step Process)

Joining a volleyball club is a once-in-a-lifetime decision. So the stakes are always high when you want to join a club. The moment you decide to join a club, a lot of questions will come to your mind right away. How to select the best volleyball club? What are the things you should look for in a volleyball club? What is the process of joining a club? Is joining the club even worth it or not? Just to mention a few.

While joining a volleyball club, you must research available options and rank them based on important factors like proximity, coaching quality, facilities available, training schedule, and level of competitiveness, among other important things. Once you shortlist the possible options, go for club tryouts.

How to Join a Volleyball Club? 

Here is the detailed process of how to do it:

Researching Local Clubs

Finding the right volleyball club is a crucial step in your volleyball journey.

Obviously, this should go without saying, but I see a lot of people procrastinating at this stage just to lament later on.

Here is what you need to do at this stage:

Utilizing Online Resources and Directories

The internet is a treasure trove of information.

Start with a basic search of clubs in your vicinity.

Websites like USA Volleyball or regional sports councils often list affiliated clubs. But don’t limit your search there.

Check the social media profiles, websites, and digital presence of different clubs and see how they engage their participants in different activities.

This way, you will get a fair idea if the club resonates with you or not. Also, you will see what activities these clubs have to offer.

Getting Recommendations

Word of mouth remains one of the most reliable sources of information. And this stands true in the case of selecting volleyball clubs as well.

Engage with friends or schoolmates who are into volleyball.

Attend local matches or sports events and interact with players or parents to get their perspectives on different clubs.

Even try to dive into social volleyball events and volleyball jamborees to meet players who have been to different clubs.

Local sports centers or educational institutions also have information on reputable clubs in the area.

But this step is just to shortlist the possible names that you need to research. Now is the time to ensure that you are joining the right club.

Things to Look for in a Volleyball Club

In order to get your money invested in the right club, it’s important to see the following things:

Coaching Staff

Coaches provide top-level training to players in volleyball clubs, and there is no doubt about it. But these coaches are hard to find.

And if you go into the hands of the wrong coaches, your technique will get screwed badly.

That is why you need to research the qualifications of the coaching staff.

Are they former players? Do they have coaching certifications? Attend a session or two to observe their coaching style and interaction with players.

Training Facilities

At the end of the day, you need top facilities in the gym to ensure perfect practice.

What is the meaning of paying so much money if the club doesn’t even offer good training facilities?

So, you need to visit the club’s training grounds. Check for well-maintained courts, gym equipment, and other training aids that will help you along the way.

Team Levels and Skill Categories

Good volleyball clubs offer different levels of competition. And you must know which level you want to join.

Having a candid discussion with the staff will also help you figure out your level of play.

But not all clubs offer varied levels. Some of them, particularly small ones, will admit you in the general category, which you must avoid if you want to be a real pro of the game.

Training Schedule and Commitment

A club’s schedule should align with your personal commitments to avoid burnout or conflicts.

Review the practice and match schedules. Factors like frequency of play, duration, and timing should lead your way in choosing the right club.

Tournament Participation

Regular tournament participation indicates a club’s competitive spirit and provides players with valuable match experience.

Most of the clubs you see will claim that they will provide you with enough tournament exposure during your journey.

But you must make things clear upfront whether or not they really provide you with enough opportunities to participate in the clubs.

Membership Fees and Costs 

Club volleyball is expensive, and there is no doubt about it. But what makes matters worse is the hidden costs that many clubs charge.

This is such an important factor to consider that it should be your top priority when choosing the volleyball club.

Know all costs before joining so you don’t have any unpleasant surprises later on.

Club Culture and Philosophy

The club’s ethos will influence your experience, from training sessions to interactions with teammates.

Talk to current members about the club’s values, or attend club open days to get a feel for its culture.

Feedback and Communication Culture

Open channels of communication ensure that any concerns or feedback are addressed promptly.

Check if the club has regular feedback sessions or if coaches are approachable for one on one discussions.

Other Key Factors to Consider

Here are some other things that you must consider while choosing a volleyball club.

Proximity

As long as you don’t bother to travel big miles every day, proximity is a factor to consider.

Consider the club’s location in relation to your home or school. A nearby club can save you commute time and ensure you’re more regular in attendance.

Reputation

A club’s past achievements, awards, and notable alumni are always a positive sign that means that the club provides insights into its quality and standards.

Checking testimonials and reviews will also help you make an informed decision.

Club Objectives

Different clubs have varied focuses. While some prioritize nurturing young talents, others might be more competition driven.

And the last thing you would want is to join a club that has nothing to offer you.

That is why it is critically important to understand the club’s primary goals and see if they align with your aspirations.

Evaluating Your Own Skill Level

Recognizing where you stand in terms of skill is crucial when choosing a club.

Volleyball clubs often categorize their teams based on skill levels to ensure each player gets the right training environment. And you can evaluate your skill with the help of

Self-assessment

Before diving into club selections, take a moment to assess your own skills. Have you played in school teams or just enjoyed casual games at the beach? Your past experiences can give you a hint about where you might fit in a club setting.

Team Categories

Clubs usually have a range of teams, from beginner to advanced. Each category has its own training intensity and competition level.

Potential for Growth

It’s also essential to consider how a club nurtures its players. Does the club offer opportunities for players to move up the ranks as they improve?

A club that provides avenues for growth is always beneficial in the long run.

The Experience of Open Gyms and Tryouts

Open gyms and tryouts are your gateway to a club.

Almost all the clubs will need you to pass tryouts, after which they display merit lists of the qualifying candidates.

They offer a glimpse into the club’s environment and allow you to showcase your skills.

Preparation

Before attending, ensure you’re physically fit and mentally prepared. Bring along essential gear like shoes, knee pads, and water.

Observation

Use this opportunity not just to play but also to observe. How do the coaches interact with players? What’s the general vibe among potential teammates? These observations can help you gauge if the club’s environment suits you.

Showcasing Skills

While it’s essential to demonstrate your volleyball skills, coaches often look beyond just talent. Your attitude, teamwork, and communication on the court also make a significant impact.

Joining the Club

Once you have followed all the steps and your name is on the merit list of a club, it’s time to finally join the club of your choice.

Once you are in, it’s your time to learn from the experts and improve your game so that you will dominate the courts in years to come.

Final Words

While you are on the journey of joining a volleyball club, it’s important to know the pros and cons of joining the club volleyball. And if you are a beginner, it’s even more important to see whether or not club volleyball is designed for beginners.

Just in case you are not ready to join the club yet, joining a volleyball clinic can also be extremely beneficial, not to mention it also comes at a lower price.