Volleyball camps offer valuable training opportunities outside of the traditional competition season. Coaches can host them to help players sharpen their skills, get to know newcomers, and even advertise their teams. If you’re considering hosting a camp, whether it’s your first or a recurring activity, check out these youth volleyball camp ideas.
How to Plan Volleyball Camp
Structure sets you up for success at volleyball camp. Follow these initial steps as you plan camp logistics.
- Define your goals. Before you put together any other details, define your goals for the camp. Do you want to offer a safe space for kids to explore athletics for the first time, or are you more focused on honing volleyball skills for advanced players? Selecting a focus will help you align the other camp elements, enabling you to meet your goal.
- Create a schedule. Pick dates and times for your camp. Most camps run at least a week, with sessions lasting several hours a day. A summer camp that lasts at least two weeks is ideal for many players, as it provides ample time for them to make significant progress.
- Group players effectively. Players will enter your camp environment with different skill levels and comfort on the court. They can learn most effectively when they work with others at or near their own skill level. Design camp schedules to group players at similar levels together.
- Prepare your venue. For an effective camp, you will need a location with a volleyball court and sufficient space for other practice drills. Secure camp volleyball uniforms and equipment to ensure your athletes have everything they need to learn and feel comfortable during play.
- Promote the camp. Camp isn’t as fun if only a few people show up. You need to promote your camp locally to encourage registration. Partner with schools and local rec centers to spread the word to your target demographics.
Related Reading: 6 Volleyball Coaching Tips
Volleyball Camp Ideas: 5 Approaches to Try
Now it is time to select drills to run with your players. A wide variety of activities balances training and keeps athletes engaged during long days.
- Warm up and cool down. Proper warm-up and cooldown routines are crucial for long days of training. Leg stretches support the jumping and lunging required in volleyball, while arm exercises help athletes prepare to serve, spike, and dig.
- Support overall athleticism. Your focus may be on volleyball, but that does not mean you should overlook overall athleticism and wellness. Dedicated time for cardio exercise keeps blood flowing. Breaks for proper hydration and nutrition enable athletes to maintain their optimal performance.
- Develop specific skills. Skill development should make up the bulk of your camp time. Spend time teaching difficult volleyball skills, such as overhand serves. Run drills for spiking, digging, and passing to round out player skill sets.
- Encourage teamwork. Learning how to work with teammates effectively is a key skill, as players are never alone on the court. Encourage teamwork during all drills. When possible, build in specific activities that develop teamwork skills.
- Have fun. Young players learn best when they are having fun, and the camp setting is the ideal place for creativity. Incorporate opportunities for athletes to be silly and express their individuality. When camp is over, you can host an awards ceremony to hand out superlative awards.
Related Reading: Youth Volleyball Positions Explained
Order Volleyball Camp Uniforms with gearUP
Here is one more youth volleyball camp idea: Partner with gearUP for camp uniforms. The gearUP process is designed to streamline apparel decisions for coaches and league managers. Custom designs, game-changing service, and quality uniforms.
Contact us today to get started or read reviews from other volleyball coaches.
The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the content accurate and up-to-date, we make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information. Please contact a professional for personalized advice.
