College Volleyball Recruiting Scenario

Hi there! 

I recently stumbled upon your website while doing research on DII and DIII recruiting. 

My history with volleyball is rather complicated because I went to a private school where I played 7th-9th grade. It wasn't a very good team as everything was free balls and underhand serves. I was home schooled my 10th grade year and in 11th grade I decided to get my GED. I pay for a club team now and they have greatly helped my playing skills. I am the starting outside hitter on my team and a jump server. 

My worry is that since I'm 16 and graduated and only play for a club team that no coach would take me as a serious player. My height is also a struggle because I'm currently 5'7 and there aren't very many college level 5'7 outside hitters. Do you think I'd have any chance? 

C.B.

An interesting volleyball recruiting scenario indeed…..

Better to break this down into sections, as to best direct you.

1. Club is your best vehicle to improving your skills and it will be your ability that results in playing college volleyball.

2.  As you have graduated high school early with your GED, use the next two years to take part time classes (so you don't start your NCAA clock by going full time) and take/retake/take again the SAT and/or ACT test.  You want to garner the highest possible score on those standardized tests.

3.  As a smaller outside hitter, your opportunity will mainly be at the low NCAA Division II/NAIA level and NCAA DIII.  These college volleyball categories use the ACT/SAT test as their basis for awarding scholarship monies.  The athletic scholarships is a small or nonexistent percentage of a total scholarship package.

4.  Continue to play club volleyball until your 18's year, because you want to wait until you are 18 before going off to college.  Leaving for college early will put you at disadvantage because the other players will be older and stronger.  Plus, it gives you more time to develop your abilities.

5.  You can't control your height, but you can influence your athletic ability.  As a smaller player, you should be aware of your fitness levels, your gradual increase in body strength and your focus on improving your jumping ability.

6.  You can't control your height, but your can control your ability.  Again, as a smaller player, you have to be a better player.  Can you pass nails, can you dig everything in sight, can you attack line/angle/off speed/use the block, etc.

7.  In situations such as yours, I do recommend NCSA Athletic Recruiting.  They have a Free Site that is packed with education resources and if you need additional support, their Premium site is the best in the country.

Your opportunity to play college volleyball is completely under your control.  Because of your unique situation, you will have to focused and disciplined to manage the process (both on and off the court).

Good luck!

Coach Matt Sonnichsen