Home Schooled Player and College Volleyball Recruiting

I love your blog, and recently bought your book.

Our daughter is 5’ 8”, just completed her freshman year with a 3.7 gpa, and is a left handed setter with a moderate approach jump (9’+).  We homeschool, and were involved with a homeschool organized volleyball team up until this past season when we got her involved in a club.  Up until this point our homeschool coach was not developing her left handed skills, and we didn’t know better to consult otherwise.  Once we got her to the club her new coaches flipped, and immediately started working her left handed skills, and she has blossomed.  The coaching staff has mentioned the possibility of volleyball beyond high school, and we want to make good decisions for her benefit.  She loves volleyball so much, and we want to help her realize this dream.

We know we are up against some hurdles with our daughter being homeschooled, and we are up for the challenge…especially our daughter is up for the challenge as she is very passionate about volleyball and academics.  But what experiences have you had (if any) regarding homeschooled players?  And what advice would you have for us as we embark upon this possibly journey over the next few years?

Your feedback is much appreciated.

Thank you,

M.T.

Thank you for purchasing Inside College Volleyball and glad to know my website is of help to you!

In general, high school volleyball has significantly diminished in importance because of the growth and professionalism of club volleyball.  Club volleyball is a 6 to 8 month situation, and with the rise of club camps and summer trainings/lessons, it is easily becoming 10 months of participation.   For many players in the larger cities, taking the high school season off has become a viable option because of the opportunity to rest their body during the fall months, without any fall off of skills.

For recruiting, college coaches are focused on club.  We may say we are concerned about high school but we really are not; we just say that so we don't upset the high school volleyball coach of our recruit.

I have not had any home schooled players, but it would not concern me if I did - As long as she is academically eligible, is my only consideration.  The volleyball development part will be handled by club, and it sounds as if you have found a good club situation to develop her volleyball abilities.

As you move forward in the process, be aware that setters tend to operate on a slower recruiting time table because of the nature of college volleyball recruiting.  Outside Hitters, then Middle Blockers, then Setters and then Liberos tend to be the nature of things.  

Because your daughter is just 5'8" with average athleticism, and new to club volleyball, my guess is committing late in her Junior year or most likely as a senior is her timetable (which is a good thing considering all the craziness in today's collegiate athletics and volleyball).

Best thing you can do is continue to support her healthy skill development, while you educate yourself about the recruiting process and rules.  To this end, I would strongly suggest you take a look at NCSA Athletic Recruiting and at least get on their Free Site which is amazing!!

In closing, enjoy the fact that you don't have to operate under the hurried recruiting tempo of the attackers.  Savor the bonus of watching your baby girl play elite level volleyball, without dealing with us crazy college coaches.  The stress will arrive soon enough, and I promise you that you will wish for her freshman and sophomore year back!

Coach