Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why play club volleyball?
A: This is a popular question, especially with those not familiar with club volleyball. Club volleyball allows those that enjoy the sport to have more opportunities to play. Some play club volleyball to improve their skills for playing on their school team. Some play to work towards making a college team or getting a college athletic scholarship. Some play simply because it's fun. Some play for all of the above reasons! Everyone has a different reason for playing but an important part is that the more you play, the better you should get.
Q: Is Jackson Hole Volleyball a school sports program?
A: No. Jackson Hole Volleyball is a non-profit, independent club program that has no affiliation with any of the school volleyball programs. Our local schools graciously provide us with gym space at a very reasonable cost and that is the extent of their involvement. Some of our club staff is involved with school sports, but we strive to maintain as much separation as possible between the school and club volleyball programs. Please direct your questions and concerns about Jackson Hole Volleyball to club staff and not toward school staff or administration.
Q: Do I have to play club volleyball to make a school team?
A: Absolutely not! We know of several athletes who have never played club volleyball and have played on high school teams or junior high teams. We also know of several athletes who have played club and have not been selected for a high school team or junior high team. Club volleyball is simply another opportunity for you to play volleyball and most likely improve your skills.
Q: Can I play club volleyball and a school sport during the same season?
A: The policy of Jackson Hole Volleyball is to leave that decision to the athlete and his or her parents or guardians. We expect 100% commitment to the program and the team, as do school coaches for their programs. When there are scheduling conflicts between school and club sports participation, this does not allow 100% commitment and can cause problems for everyone involved. Studies show that athletes participating in multiple sports programs during a season have low skill improvement and that they are more prone to suffer from over-training injuries. Participating in multiple sports is also a major time commitment when trying to balance family, academic, social, and other activities. Please heavily consider the impact on you and your potential teammates if you plan on participating in club volleyball and doing a school sport during the same season.
Q: Will I be playing with and against athletes who are close to my age?
A: Most likely. An athlete's age classification is determined by their age as of September 1st (use the handy 2010 Age Classification Chart) and we use this when formulating teams. An athlete is allowed to "play up" any number of age levels, but is not allowed to "play down". For example, a 15 & under (U15) player can play up on a U16, U17, or U18 team, but cannot play down on a U14, U13, or U12 team.
Q: I'm interested in playing college volleyball. What do I need to do?
A: In addition to playing as much volleyball as possible to improve your skills, there are several things you need to know in order to potentially play college volleyball. The NCAA offers a great online guide for athletes contemplating playing college sports. There are a variety of college volleyball opportunities ranging from small junior colleges right up to top-tier NCAA Division I programs.
Q: My question must not be "frequently asked", because I don't see it here. Who can I ask?
A: Please send your questions to "Spike's" email at the bottom of the page and we'll attempt to get back to you as soon as possible. During the season, feel free to approach or email your coach with your questions or concerns.
