Become A Member

Resources for

Follow USAVolleyball

NULL

Parenting is hard. Helping navigate a child through being an athlete doesn’t make that job any easier, either, regardless of whether or not you are or were one yourself. No matter how old or how skilled your young athlete is, they will benefit from your encouragement and positivity. As you’ll learn from the tools on this page, the best help you can provide to your child is unconditional love and support…

And maybe, at times, a peppering partner.

Gifts for a Volleyball Player

I think the best gifts for a volleyball player are the Gift of Play, the Gift of Struggle, the Gift of a Lifetime Sport and the Gift of Unconditional Support. At USA Volleyball, we hope all are given to your child as they learn this challenging, but totally team sport.

John Kessel

Longtime coach and retired USAV director of sport development

From, "The Best Gifts for a Volleyball Player"

Tips and Tools on How to Become a Great Sports Parent

As part of the HP Academy, USAV Director of Sport Peter Vint and USAV National Team Consultant Sue Enquist discuss strategies and techniques they’ve seen and used themselves to raise healthy, strong athletes.

Tips on Supporting Your Athlete...

In the Gym

At Home

A Parent's Bill of Rights when Joining a Club

I have the right to:

  • be treated with dignity and respect
  • share in the leadership and decision making of your athlete
  • approach the leadership of the club organization with which you are involved
  • cheer for your child in a positive manner
  • verify your coaches/team qualifications
  • ask questions and receive answers
  • ensure that the adults involved with your child are positive role models
  • talk to parents, other players and/or other clubs
  • have your child tryout without discrimination
  • request a clear disclosure of financial obligations
  • have a written clubs statement of philosophy
  • be informed about your child’s role on the team
  • have your child tryout out for more than one club and be allowed time to make a decision as specified by the tryout policy
  • the knowledge of the time, travel and financial commitment of your involvement with the club/team.
  • knowledge of how many spots are available before tryouts begin
  • remove your child from an event/practice if you feel it is unsafe for your child to continue without repercussions
  • know that all club affiliated staff are members of the NCVA and background checked.
  • ask your club director if they adhere to all State and Federal business requirements and laws

Always Remember...

P is for praising, which your child needs often.
A is for accepting, so hard edges will soften.
R is for recognizing your child’s many talents.
E is for encouraging a good healthy balance.
N is for nurturing, to help your child grow.
T is for teaching, then letting go.
S is for smiling at the growth and the glow.

Courtesy of the Northern California Regional Volleyball Association