Bump, set and spike! Volleyball is a popular sport worldwide and has become increasingly popular in recent years. The sport is a combination of tennis, baseball and basketball all rolled into one game. There are competitive programs for volleyball, but the great thing about this fun sport is that it is easy to learn and can be played in a gym, at the beach, or on grass. So even if kids don’t want to compete, they can still enjoy playing it recreationally.
Wins
If your child is always jumping and hopping around, possesses good eye-hand coordination and is always tossing or bouncing a ball around, volleyball may be for them. Playing will improve cardio endurance, flexibility, balance and coordination. Girls are the star athletes on most volleyball courts, where they learn team work and cooperation.
Losses
Just as with other sports, volleyball has become more and more competitive. Coaches encourage and want their athletes to participate in the sport at varying levels year round. In addition, some parents may find volleyball uniforms a bit “brief” for their daughters, as the shorts seem to get smaller and tighter every year.
Best For
Kids with high energy and physical endurance can excel at volleyball. While tall kids are a likely fit for the sport, smaller kids that are quick and coordinated also make great players. Volleyball is also a true team sport with players in constant communication. Especially during a rally, there should be constant chatter between teammates.
Time Commitment
Under-8: Practices last 30 minutes to one hour, one or two times a week with one game per week.
9-10: Practices last one hour and 15 minutes, two or three times a week. At least one game per week.
10+: Practices last one hour and 30 minutes to two hours, three or more times a week. At least one game per week.
Gear
- T-Shirt, Volleyball Jersey or Uniform
- Practice Clothes
- Tennis Shoes (younger kids)
- Volleyball Shoes (older kids)
- Kneepads
Cost
- T-Shirt, Volleyball Jersey or Uniform: $10+ (may be included w/ registration)
- Practice Clothes: 10+
- Tennis Shoes (younger kids): $25+
- Volleyball Shoes (older kids): $40+
- Kneepads: $10+
- Registration: All ages – start at $25.00
Competitive:
- Club Fees: $50+/month
- Tournament Entrance Fees: $500+ per team
- Coach Tournament Fee and Travel Expenses: $100 – $500 average per event
- Travel Expenses: $100-$500 average per event
Fees vary according to what is provided by the organizing entity. Please keep in mind some registration fees are one time, others are monthly. All costs are approximate. As with any activity, as your child progresses, only your family can choose what you will spend in relation to your child’s specific goals within the sport whether competitively or recreationally.
Leagues
There are several volleyball leagues scattered across the metro. A handful are listed below. Schools and city parks and recreations departments also offer opportunities to play volleyball.
Rams Volleyball – Altoona
Youth Volleyball – Ankeny Parks & Recreation
Iowa Volleyball Region – Clive
YMCA of Greater Des Moines – Des Moines
Ohana Volleyball Club – Grimes
Indianola Volleyball Club – Indianola
Johnston Volleyball Club – Johnston
Urbandale Girls Recreation Association – Urbandale
SportsPlex West – Waukee
Valley Volleyball Tiger Club – West Des Moines
What do you think, is volleyball a fit for your kid?
