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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I wish I had read these discussions earlier so I could have avoided some of the pitfalls DD experienced this season. I agree with many of the neutral observations shared here about Paramount’s culture. Looking back, there were several red flags I didn’t recognize at the time, such as the high turnover rate (8 new players and only 6 returning on our team) and the large roster sizes, which leave non-starting players with very limited or sometimes no playing time.

I feel sorry for DD because she was such a happy and confident player before this season, and I wish I had done more research to avoid this difficult experience. Since I’m still new to volleyball, I may not fully understand all the strategies involved, but my impression is that some of the 2s teams are scheduled against weaker opponents to maximize wins and improve AES rankings. It also seems that earning USAV bids is the primary focus, while the final placement at Nationals matters less because the bids themselves are a major part of the club’s marketing.

Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences and insights. While DD has no intention of playing volleyball in college, the “win at all costs” environment is not the right fit for her. We hope to find a club that places more emphasis on player development, confidence, and enjoyment of the game. Most of all, I hope she can regain the confidence and happiness she had before this season.[/quote]
VA Juniors seems to be the first choice of those leaving Paramount.[/quote]

We definitely want to try out for Junior, but it might be a bit of a reach for us right now. Do you have any recommendations for clubs that are a step above MOJO but below Junior? It seems like BRYC has a pretty good reputation, while I’ve heard more mixed things about VAE. On our list: Junior, BRYC, Loudon elite[/quote]

I don’t think VAE is the right fit. The club fees are expensive, and it seems like they’re playing in tournament divisions that are above the team’s actual skill level, so they keep losing. There are also 13 players on the roster, but it feels like only the same few players get consistent playing time.

Even though Paramount has two teams, they still seem focused on winning with their stronger players, almost like a first team at other clubs, rather than focusing on development. At this point, the options are either to find a club that competes at a more appropriate division level (e.g. BRYC tends to play one division lower than Paramount, Jrs, VAE), or to improve through private lessons and work toward becoming part of the core playing group. Also, VA Jrs or Loudoun Elite 1st team often compete in the same divisions (such as Open divisions) as Paramount’s second teams in many tournaments. That means they are generally looking for players with a similar skill level to those on Paramount 2s.

Team sports are only really fun when the team is doing well together. Even if I get a lot of playing time, it’s hard to stay motivated when the team struggles overall. I think the most important thing is finding a slightly stronger team while also being realistic about one’s current skill level.

I really hope you can find a great team for next season.[/quote]

Thank you. I agree with every word. Playing up can feel frustrating, while playing down can become boring. We’re really looking for a club that places players at the right level for their development and confidence.

Do you happen to have any recommendations for private coaches, especially for serving/receiving and setting skills?[/quote]

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