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With so many options available, finding the right volleyball club for your child can be overwhelming. The Excelsior Empire Region, part of USA Volleyball, offers unique advantages that set it apart from other organizations. Here are the top reasons why playing club volleyball in our region could be the perfect choice for your child:

1. Unmatched Safety Measures

The safety of players is our top priority. As a part of USA Volleyball, Excelsior Empire Region requires comprehensive background checks for all personnel involved, from coaches to staff. This ensures that everyone working with our young athletes has been thoroughly vetted.

2. Secondary Accident Insurance

Accidents happen, but we’ve got you covered. Players are protected by secondary accident insurance during all Excelsior/USAV practices and events. This extra layer of protection provides peace of mind for parents and athletes alike.

3. Convenient Tournaments Close to Home

Our tournaments are designed with flexibility in mind. Spanning from 1-2 days, they are held at various locations throughout the region, allowing teams to choose between local events or larger Excelsior-sponsored tournaments.

4. Beach National Qualifying Tournament

For those who love beach volleyball, Excelsior offers a national qualifying tournament, giving top teams the opportunity to compete on the national stage at USAV’s outdoor championships.

5. Commitment to Professionalism

At Excelsior, we uphold the highest standards of professionalism. Our motto, “Ever Upwards,” is a testament to our dedication to excellence. Coaches, referees, and staff follow a strict code of conduct, ensuring positive and respectful interactions with young athletes.

6. Exciting All-Star Program

We’re thrilled to offer an All-Star Program, where top athletes in the region have the chance to compete at the prestigious annual All-Star Championship tournament in July. Interested in learning more? Find out more here.

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FAQs About Club Volleyball in Excelsior Empire Region

Where are the tournaments located?
Excelsior-sanctioned tournaments are held across New York State, in facilities like school gyms, sports complexes, and larger venues such as convention centers. Many of these events are organized by local clubs, offering them opportunities to raise funds for their programs.

At what age can my child start playing club volleyball?
Players typically range from 12U to 18U teams, but some of our clubs offer opportunities for younger athletes, starting as early as 8 years old. Some even provide VolleyTots programs, introducing kids to the sport with a shorter time commitment and low-stress environment, making them grow at their own pace.

How do I know which age group my child should play in?
Use the USA Volleyball Junior Age Definition Chart to determine the appropriate age group for your child.

How do I find clubs near me?
You can easily locate clubs in your area by visiting our Find a Club page.

How can I find tournament details?
All Excelsior-sanctioned tournaments are listed on SportsEngine AES, where you can find important details such as the venue address and game start times. Tournament-specific emails are also sent to Club Directors and Tournament Directors, who will share that information with parents. Not receiving these updates? Make sure to sign up for our Mailing List.

What does a typical tournament day look like?
Expect an early start! Most tournaments kick off around 8 AM and wrap up by 6 PM, though timing can vary depending on your team’s performance, pool size, and other factors. Be sure to confirm with your coach or tournament site director before leaving.

Are there admission fees for spectators?
Some tournaments charge a spectator fee. If this applies, the fee and any additional charges (such as credit card processing fees) will be communicated in advance.

Can boys play on girls’ club teams?
Yes, only if they are eligible to play on a 12 & Under team. We encourage younger athletes to participate, especially in areas where boys’ volleyball might not be as popular. Coed teams are available throughout the region but some clubs might not offer such program, so always contact the club you are looking to join.

Will my child get to officiate matches?
Yes! A unique aspect of junior volleyball is the chance for players to help officiate other matches. Teams provide “work teams” that handle roles such as R2, line judging, scoring, and libero tracker during assigned work matches. This not only helps tournaments run smoothly but also gives players valuable leadership and teamwork experience. A coach will always be present to assist.

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Playing club volleyball in the Excelsior Empire Region provides a safe, supportive, and professional environment for young athletes to grow. Whether your child is just starting out or aiming for the top, Excelsior has a program that fits their needs.

Ready to get started? Find your local club here and join the Excelsior volleyball family today!

Are you dreaming of playing volleyball at the next level but aren’t sure how to get noticed by coaches? You’re not alone! Coaches are looking for more than just a good jump serve or a killer spike; they’re watching for athletes who have the potential to grow, lead, and contribute to the team. So, how do you stand out and grab their attention? We’ve got you covered! Here are some tips to help you get noticed and make a lasting impression on volleyball coaches.

1. Showcase Your Skills in the Right Environment

First things first—be seen where coaches are watching. Whether you’re at club tournaments, showcases, or summer camps, coaches scout where talent gathers. Be strategic about where you play, and make sure you’re participating in the right leagues and events. That’s where the magic happens.

Pro Tip: Don’t just go through the motions—put in your best effort in every drill, match, and scrimmage. Coaches are always evaluating work ethic and hustle, even in warm-ups!

2. Work on Your All-Around Game

While coaches may be looking for specific positions or strengths, versatility can make you an even more appealing player. Improve not just in your specialized role but in all areas of the game. Being able to serve, pass, block, and dig shows that you’re adaptable and coachable.

Fun Fact: A player who can adjust to any position is often a coach’s secret weapon. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone!

3. Highlight Your Coachability

Speaking of being coachable—this is HUGE. Coaches love players who are open to feedback, willing to learn, and show improvement over time. They aren’t looking for someone who knows it all but rather someone who’s hungry to grow.

How to Show It: When coaches give instructions or corrections, acknowledge it with a positive attitude. Implement the feedback quickly, and let them see that you’re serious about developing as a player.

4. Embrace Grit and Resilience

Volleyball, like any sport, is full of highs and lows, and coaches are watching how you handle both. When the game gets tough, are you the player who digs in or checks out? Gritty players stand out because they maintain effort and passion even when things aren’t going their way.

Here’s what the leading expert on grit has to say (Duckworth et al. 2007):

“We define grit as perseverance and passion for long-term goals. Grit entails working strenuously toward challenges, maintaining effort and interest over years despite failure, adversity, and plateaus in progress. The gritty individual approaches achievement as a marathon; his or her advantage is stamina. Whereas disappointment or boredom signals to others that it is time to change trajectory and cut losses, the gritty individual stays the course.”

In other words, coaches want athletes who can push through obstacles, stay committed, and show resilience no matter the challenges.

5. Have a Strong (and Positive) Attitude

Volleyball is a team sport that thrives on energy and communication. Coaches want athletes who can inspire their teammates, stay composed under pressure, and bring a positive vibe to the court—even when the going gets tough. How you handle a bad call or a missed play says a lot about your character.

Pro Tip: Stay vocal, stay engaged, and bring that high-energy spark to every game. Coaches notice players who lift their team up rather than those who get easily frustrated.

6. Take Initiative Off the Court

Standing out doesn’t stop once the final whistle blows. Take the extra step by reaching out to coaches, whether it’s via email, social media, or through recruiting platforms. Make sure your highlight reel, stats, and contact information are readily available and up-to-date.

What to Include in Your Email:

• A brief introduction about who you are
• Your volleyball achievements and stats
• Why you’re interested in their program
• Links to your highlight reel and social media profiles (if relevant)

Coaches appreciate athletes who take their recruitment process seriously and show genuine interest in their program.

7. Be a Leader and a Good Teammate

Leadership and teamwork are key traits that coaches look for. Show that you’re willing to be a leader on and off the court—whether that means encouraging teammates, staying positive during tough matches, or taking responsibility when things don’t go your way.

Remember: Being a great teammate is just as important as being a great player. Volleyball is a sport built on trust, and coaches need players they can count on to be selfless, reliable, and hardworking.

8. Don’t Forget the Classroom

It’s easy to focus solely on volleyball, but don’t forget—many coaches are also looking for student-athletes who are serious about academics. Keeping your grades up and showing dedication in the classroom can boost your chances of standing out. A strong academic record demonstrates discipline and responsibility, both of which translate well on the court.

9. Stay Consistent

Coaches value consistency. If you perform well in one game but disappear in the next, it becomes hard for them to gauge your reliability. Whether it’s practice, training, or game time—stay consistent in your work ethic, attitude, and effort.

Conclusion

Standing out to volleyball coaches isn’t just about how well you can play; it’s about showing your all-around potential as an athlete and teammate. Whether you’re playing in a big tournament, attending a camp, or simply reaching out via email, remember to give 100%, be humble, and stay passionate. Your talent may get you noticed, but your character will make you unforgettable.

Ready to level up your volleyball game? Go out there and shine!