Transitioning from indoor to beach volleyball comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities, but with the right strategy, you can increase your chances of getting recruited for college beach volleyball.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the recruitment process:
1. Build Strong Beach Foundational Skills
Many high school players are accustomed to indoor volleyball, but beach volleyball requires a unique skill set. Focus on mastering skills like ball control, reading the game, and adapting to variable weather conditions. Understanding the technical differences between indoor and beach volleyball is crucial for success.
2. Set Timeline Goals
Create a timeline outlining your goals and the sequential steps needed to become recruitable. Seek feedback from beach coaches to assess your current level and identify areas for improvement. Setting clear goals will help you stay focused and motivated throughout your journey.
3. Develop a Clear Action Plan
Craft a structured action plan that includes training hours per day and week, as well as specific skills to refine and develop. Consider creating a vision board to visualize your journey and track your progress. Dedication and consistency are key to achieving your goals.
4. Compete in Big Tournaments
Participating in major beach tournaments provides valuable experience and allows you to assess your skills against competitors in your age group. Pay attention to how you fare against others and identify areas for growth. Competing at a higher level will help you refine your game and catch the attention of college coaches.
5. Record Tournament Games
Capture your tournament games on video using a steady tripod to ensure clear footage. Avoid shaky or crooked footage, as coaches prefer clear images for evaluation. Highlight reels can showcase your skills and performance, making it easier for coaches to assess your potential.
6. Draft Personalized Emails to Colleges
Reach out to colleges that align with your academic and athletic goals. Craft personalized emails expressing your interest in their program and highlighting why you would be a valuable addition to their team. Avoid sending mass emails and instead focus on schools that fit your needs and skill level. Showcase your competitive energy and positive attitude in both your email and video footage.
By following this road map you can increase your chances of getting recruited for college beach volleyball and take your game to the next level. Remember to stay focused, work hard, and believe in yourself. Your dedication and passion for the sport will shine through and attract the attention of college coaches. Good luck on your journey to collegiate beach volleyball success!
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About the Author
Taye Im has been guiding Team One Volleyball (Chicago, IL), a JVA member club, for the past 14 years, serving as both owner and club director. Nestled in between Naperville and Aurora, IL, Team One Volleyball operates out of a new 20,000 sq ft facility, boasting three sport courts and two indoor sand courts.
Their approach is refreshingly straightforward: providing a hybrid program that caters to both indoor and beach players, all year round. With a focus on inclusivity and opportunity, Team One Volleyball aims to support volleyball athletes in pursuing their dreams, whether it be in the indoor arena or on the sandy shores of collegiate beach volleyball.
Under Taye’s guidance, Team One Volleyball has had the privilege of aiding over 40 athletes in securing spots on collegiate beach volleyball teams across the country. Taye attributes their success to cultivating a supportive and nurturing environment, empowering athletes to thrive and achieve their full potential.
Taye Im’s journey with Team One Volleyball is a humble testament to the power of passion, dedication, and community in shaping the dreams of aspiring athletes.
