EPLSite Journey: What It's Like to Be a Volleyball Player
One of the most rewarding and challenging things about being a volleyball player is being able to participate in something so full of life, adrenaline, and sweat. The thrill of playing a fast-paced, competitive sport can feel like nothing else. That being said, the pressure of being a volleyball player can be intense, and not everyone handles it well. If you’re reading this, you probably already know that being a volleyball player isn’t easy. There are so many responsibilities and expectations that come with being a part of the team. Here’s a look at what it’s like to be a member of the team.
What is it like to be a volleyball player?
Being a volleyball player is like being a part-time athlete and a full-time student. After practice, class, and a social event, you’re expected to still be able to hit the books. Although being on the team allows you to study and learn new skills with your teammates, you’re still expected to always have a backup plan in case the team doesn’t qualify for Nationals, or if you’re not feeling well and have to miss a session. There will always be pressure and expectations, especially with the professionalization of volleyball in the last decade.
Volleyball is a team game
Just like in football, basketball, hokey or other team sports, you’re not expected to be great at volleyball because you’re on the team. You need to be good, but not great. It’s not an individual sport. You can’t show off your skills and be the best player on the court. You need to block the other team’s best player, hit the ball in the back row, and rally with your teammates. Everyone on the team is important, and it’s what the coach wants from the team that wins games.
You need to be fit and agile
Being fit and agile can help you become a better player on the court, but also in life. You need to be able to move around quickly and show up every day ready to work hard. Agility also helps you recover from mistakes and injuries faster, which is important in a team sport.
You need to be a good communicator
One of the keys to being successful in sports is communication. Whether you’re a member of the team, a coach, or an administrator, you need to be able to communicate with your teammates, coaches, and fans. This can be difficult if you’re not very vocal and able to communicate with your teammates. Being vocal and able to communicate doesn’t just help you with playing sports, but with everyday life, too. It’s important to be able to speak up to let a teammate know where they need to be on the court, or when someone needs to hit a shot or make a pass.
You need to always be on your game
Being on your game means being focused and attentive. You need to always be ready to perform, whether in practice or in a game. You also need to be prepared for mistakes. When you get nervous or make a mistake, you need to be able to recognize that mistake and move on.
Volleyball isn’t for everyone
Although volleyball is an intense sport, it’s not for everyone. You need to be fit and have a certain level of fitness to play. You also need to enjoy the grind of practice and be willing to put in the effort. Volleyballs aren’t easy to find; there are only 1,684 female college players in the country.
A volleyball player’s day-to-day life
The volleyball season runs from August to May. During the season, you practice four days a week, play one to three games, and then have practices and conditioning on top of that. After the season ends, you have to wait until August to start again. You also have to keep up with school work and try to balance everything with a healthy social life.
Bottom Line
The life of a college volleyball player can be both thrilling and challenging. It can be hard to keep up with school work, be fit, and play a sport that requires intense effort on a daily basis. If you’re interested in playing volleyball, it’s important to remember that it’s not for everyone, and that you need to be willing to put in the effort to succeed. The payoff, though, can be huge. Playing volleyball is fun, challenging, and rewarding. It’s a great way to meet new people and make friends while also getting a workout in that challenges you.
Levski Sofia (W) - Maritza (W)
Conegliano (W) - Vero Volley (W)