Anyone who knows me, knows that I love volleyball. I love playing. I love coaching. I love watching volleyball. Good volleyball. Over the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to get out and see some high school matches both at the JV and the Varsity level. Volleyball in Georgia is getting more competitive with each season that passes. The gap is closing between the historically top high school programs in the state and everyone else and the matches are getting more and more competitive and fun to watch.
Now after watching many teams over the past few weeks, it is interesting to note that there are as many coaching styles, systems, rituals and philosophies as there are teams out there. Some are better than others, but we must keep in mind that the high school season typically only lasts from August to (for the teams that are both lucky and good) October. Because volleyball takes thousands and thousands of reps to master, it is extremely difficult (if not impossible) for players to really advance their game during this short time.
That is where club volleyball comes in. Players get advanced coaching and the many reps and games necessary to become good over an extended period of time. The club level is where the sport is really getting better.
I have always believed that our training at PLA is some of the best around, hands down. We derive our techniques and systems directly from the ultra successful USA National teams. We also try to teach our players to think about the game and not just simply follow orders. They need to understand WHY.
Now, with a couple of years under our belts and having worked with a good number of athletes, it is great to get out and see many of our PLA athletes at these high school matches. But we don’t get to just go see them and support them. We get to go to the matches and see them PLAY! Every single school that has players who played club volleyball for PLA has players who are major contributors to their team. Some of these schools include Northview, Milton, Lambert, Central Forsyth, South, West, Alpharetta, Chattahoochee, North Gwinnett, Collins Hill, Chestatee, and the list goes on. Everywhere I go, whichever system, and for many different coaches, I am seeing PLA players on the floor leading their teams. This is a very rewarding and exciting time. It is a testament to all of our players’ hard work and makes me look forward to club season when i can get back in the gym with them again.
Good luck to everyone as you go into your upcoming matches and continue to play hard and represent your teams and our club and know that I am proud to have worked with each and every one of you.
Coach Mike
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