Choosing a Volleyball Club

Selecting a juniors club is an important family decision. Although every program in the Old Dominion Region (ODR) must comply with USA Volleyball (USAV) and ODR rules, clubs can differ significantly in philosophy, coaching style, expectations, training methods, cost, and overall experience.

Before you begin your search, take time to talk with your athlete about what they want from the season—competitive vs. developmental, local vs. travel-based, beginner-friendly vs. advanced. It’s also common for athletes to have preferences based on where friends or classmates are trying out.

Step 1: Explore Options in Your Area

Start by checking the ODR Club Listing to find nearby programs.

• Review club websites for information on tryouts, team levels, coaching staff, training philosophy, schedules, and fees.
• Reach out with specific questions—strong clubs communicate clearly, openly, and in a timely manner.
• Consider your family’s comfort level with practice locations, total cost, travel expectations, and tournament schedules.

Step 2: Look at the Whole Program

A well-run program offers much more than simple athletic instruction. Look for:

Player-Focused Development

• A healthy balance of learning, competing, and having fun
• Coaches who value growth, confidence, and sportsmanship—not just winning
• Age-appropriate training and realistic expectations

Clear, Honest Policies

• Expectations for athletes and parents that are easy to understand
• Transparent communication channels so you know who to contact
• Full financial details, including fees, payment plans, and refund policies

Transparent Governance & Leadership

• Clearly identified club leadership and coaching staff
• Defined processes for addressing concerns or conflicts
• Accountability for coaches and administrators

Key Questions to Consider

Treat this as a reference guide—ask the questions that are important to you and make sure the answers feel clear and reassuring.

Tryouts

• When and where are tryouts held?
• Are makeup or alternative sessions available?
• What is the tryout fee?
• What skills or qualities are evaluated?
• Are parents allowed to observe?

Offers & Commitments

• When are offers made, and how long do families have to accept or decline?
• Does the club use a written commitment or contract?
• What happens if we accept and later need to withdraw?

Costs & Financial Transparency

• What are the total estimated costs for the season?
• What is included—and what is not included?
• Are payment plans available?
• What additional costs should families expect (travel, hotels, uniforms, extra tournaments)?
• Are there penalties for late payments?
• What is the refund policy (injury, quitting, season disruption)?
• Does the club offer scholarships or financial aid?
• Are fundraising opportunities offered?
• Are there volunteer or parent participation requirements?  

Practices & Training

• What are the practice days, times, and locations?
• How many practices occur each week, and how long are they?
• What is the coach-to-player ratio?
• What does a typical practice look like?
• Are there position-specific or supplemental training opportunities?
• Are practices open to parent viewing?

Coaching

• Who will be the head coach for this team?
• What are the coach’s qualifications and experience?
• How long has this coach been with the club?
• Will this coach stay with the team all season?
• Are assistant coaches assigned?
• How are coaches evaluated or held accountable?
• What happens if a coach becomes unavailable during the season?

Team Structure & Player Placement

• How many teams are offered per age group?
• How are teams selected and tiered (e.g., 1s, 2s, 3s)?
• How many players are on each roster?
• Can players move between teams during the season?
• Under what conditions may an athlete “play up” an age group?

Playing Time

• What is the club’s philosophy on playing time? (equal, earned, situational)
• How is playing time communicated to players and/or families?
• Do all players participate in every match?

Competitions & Travel

• Which tournaments will the team attend?
• How many tournaments are scheduled?
• What types of events (local, regional, national qualifiers)?
• How much travel is required?
• Does the club plan to attend USAV or AAU Nationals?
• When is the team’s last competition?

Club Philosophy & Policies

• What is the club’s training philosophy?
• How do you balance development vs. winning?
• What age groups and team levels are offered?
• What are the policies regarding:
  • Multi-sport athletes or high school sports
  • Absences or tardiness
  • Injuries and return-to-play
  • Parent communication
  • Conflict resolution
• Is there a formal process for handling parent/athlete concerns or complaints?

Communication & Culture

• How does the club communicate with families (email, apps, meetings)?
• How often do coaches communicate with players individually?
• Is communication directed primarily to the athlete, the parent, or both?
• Can we speak with current or former families about their experience?
• How would you describe the overall culture of the club?

Safety & Compliance

• Are all coaches current on SafeSport certification and background screening?
• What policies are in place to ensure athlete safety?
• How are issues like bullying or misconduct addressed?

College Recruiting

• Does the club provide support for college recruiting?
• If yes, what support is included (film, education, guidance, outreach)?