Looking for advice on where/how to start

[Anonymous]

Hi everyone! I’m looking for advice on next steps for my daughter in volleyball. She’ll be entering 8th grade next year and played on her school’s no-cut team (small private school) for the first time this year and loved it.

She wants to learn more and improve, and we’re considering things like summer camps. For parents who’ve been through this:

Are summer camps a good next step?
What types of camps are best for beginners?
When does club volleyball usually make sense?

We’re mostly focused on helping her build skills and keep enjoying the sport. She hopes to play in high school. Thanks in advance for any advice!

[Anonymous]

Where do you live?

[Anonymous]

This OP. Forgot to add that important info - we are in Alexandria area. We are open to Alexandria/Springfield/Fairfax/Falls Church/Annandale area. TIA!

[Anonymous]

Start with spring rec in any of those communities. Playing a lot of games is what she needs to play catch up since she's starting later.

I'd look at the RISE Volleyball program too. The coaches are great and I think would give you an honest assessment of whether your player will be ready for club volleyball next year. It will be tough for her to make as an 8th grader just getting started (compared to girls who have been playing at a high level for years) but doable if she puts in a lot of time.

[Anonymous]

Here are some suggestions. I would register for a house league to play this spring. BRYC appears to be closest to you.

https://www.novavolleyballalliance.org/youthrec

St. James currently has a league for middle schools. It started this Friday. Maybe you can get a pro-rated fee if you contact them.

https://www.thestjames.com/sports/volleyball#leagues

[Anonymous]

No personal experience but I hear positive things about SYA’s travel program. She could try out in the spring if she played on a team before. https://www.sycva.com/volleyball

[Anonymous]

This is OP - thanks so much everyone!!