Questions and Answers:

1.      What is the difference between National, State, Regional and Local League Teams?  The National teams have a tournament schedule that includes two (2) National Qualifiers and extensive travel.  The State teams will participate in tournaments in Florida, one Regional tournament and one National Qualifier in Atlanta (Big South).  The Regional teams will attend three away tournaments and one Regional tournament.  Local league teams will attend one away tournament and will participate in several scrimmages/tournaments with other teams locally.

2.      Will players play with other players of their own age?  Yes, for the National and State teams, players are grouped by age (12-18); however, consideration will be given to players “playing up” if their skills are advanced.  The Regional/League teams will be “blended.”  We anticipate the following age grouping:  8-12s and 13-15s.  This may change, though, depending on the number of player signing up for Regional/Local League play.

3.      How many players will be on a team and how are they chosen?  For National and State teams there will be between 9 and 10 players per team.  For the Regional/League we expect no more than 7 or 8 players per team.  During tryouts a number of coaches will independently review your player’s skills.  They will compile their results and determine teams.  If you selected Regional/State but we feel your player would do better participating in a State team, we will tell you but whether the player moves up to the State team would be your decision.

4.      How are coaches chosen?  We have very experienced coaches.  (Click HERE to see our coaches.)  Coaches are chosen based on their volleyball coaching experience with certain age groups.  Some coaches prefer to coach younger players while others prefer the older girls.  All our coaches are experienced and many have played college volleyball or coached in college, high school or middle school.

5.      Will my player receive equal playing time on the court?  During practice every player should receive equal practice/playing time.  During tournaments, though, playing time is dependent on the prior week’s practice, skill development, etc.  Every player earns their playing time on the court during tournaments.  For the Regional/League teams, playing time will be much more equal due to the size of the teams – this is why the Regional/League teams are considered “developmental” teams.

6.      How many practices per week will each team have and how long is the “season?”  The Nationals and state teams will practice 3 times per week starting in late December or early January (depending on gym space).  The Regional teams will practice 2 times per week and practice will start in January.  The State teams will practice 2-3 timer per week and their season starts in January. 

7.      What exactly is the Regional and Local league all about?  Many players coming out of “City League” volleyball do not have the skill sets necessary to participate in a National or State team.  The Regional/Local teams will work with the player to develop these skill sets.  The players will also learn the 5-1 and 6-2 rotations, the proper passing platform, movement, overhand serve, etc. 

8.      Do I need to buy jerseys or other equipment to play?  Every player should have several common items as follows:  several “black” spandex shorts, knee pads, socks and a good pair of volleyball shoes.  Local Leagues players will receive one jersey and a noodie; Regional Teams two jerseys and a hoodie; State Teams 3 jerseys and a hoodie; and, National Temas three jerseys and a hoodie.  Our jerseys are “Mizuno.".  We do, however, recommend each player purchase a good pair of volleyball shoes. 

9.   How are hotels selected?  For most tournaments we will be staying at the hotels the host club recommends.   Since many tournaments we attend are in Orlando it makes sense to find a hotel conveniently located near the Civic Center that offers a group discount rate.   You will find players tend to “bond” with their teammates when they all stay together.  Our travel coordinator will seek the best hotel deal for the club.

10. How can I pay for club?  We have several payment options.  First, we offer a discount (3%) to those paying their club dues in full in December.  Second, we offer a three month pay plan with 33 1/3% due the first of December and the balance in two equal payment due early January and February.  Third, you can pay using “PayPal.”  (There is an additional fee associated with using PayPal.)  Under the “Payment” tab of our web site you will find a link to our PayPal account.  If you need additional time to pay you will need to contact our Treasurer, Lee Gerzina at lgerzina@gmail.com.  These provisions will be made on an individual basis.

11.  Is there a discount if I have more than one player playing with the Jrs?  There is not currently a discount for those with more than one player, although we are considering a discount if a family has more than one player on the Jrs.  We will however provide several fundraising opportunities to off set the cost of all our players. 

12.  Can girls travel together locally and out of town?  Locally, players can carpool to practice.  However, when traveling out of town the parent is responsible for their player.  Coaches are not allowed to drive players to an out of town tournament under any circumstances. 

13.  Tell me more about fundraising.  We encourage fundraising on behalf of the player, team and club.  Parents can come up with their own fundraising ideas for their team or player.  The club will also try and undertake fundraising but for the most part, teams working together have the most fundraising success.   Any money a team raises through fundraising is dedicated to that team and pro-rated among the players who participated in the fundraising activity.  If a single player raises money that player can decide how the money is to be allocated.

14.  How do I deal with issues/problems with my child’s coach?  First you should try to talk with the team coach.  Your discussion should take place out of earshot of any players and not during match play or practice.  If you are not satisfied with the coach’s answer, you may contact the club Director.   If still not satisfied, you may ask the Jrs Board to address your issue.

Should you have additional questions, please email us at info@tallyvball.com.