Club Spotlight: Pay to Train
With club tryouts starting, it can be overwhelming in so many ways: anxious players hoping to make a team, heavy-hearted coaches who’ll have to make cuts, and parents who bear the expense. It is important to remember the cost has…
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Continue ReadingWith club tryouts starting, it can be overwhelming in so many ways: anxious players hoping to make a team, heavy-hearted coaches who’ll have to make cuts, and parents who bear the expense. It is important to remember the cost has been carefully calculated and includes many things; most importantly, you are paying for training and not necessarily playing time.
A quick look at the top clubs in the Midwest and one can sympathize for the families looking to participate in club volleyball. Like many things the price seems to keep rising.
Mizuno Northern Lights: $2,550 – $5,875
Kandi Elite: $1,500-$2,500
Southern Minnesota Volleyball : $1,300 – $2,300
Minnesota North: $1,200- $2,400
M1: $2,340- $5,636
The prices vary from club to club and for each level within clubs. There are lots of options for every family budget and ability level. The more competitive teams tend to travel more, practice a lot, and enter bigger tournaments; therefor, costing more.
Off-set Costs
So many clubs around the state offer programs and opportunities to help with the financial obligations. Be sure to ask about what your club offers. Perhaps they have monthly payment schedules, work opportunities, scholarships, fundraising, etc. Don’t be afraid to inquire if the price tag has you feeling overwhelmed. You are not alone and the clubs are set up to help players.
Pay to Train
Keep in mind what you are paying for: quality coaches, practices, travel expenses, court fees, hotels/housing, uniforms, equipment/balls, conditioning, registration, entry fees, etc. These things are important to remember because they determine prices and club fees.
It can be easy to feel like your child deserves to play because of the great deal of money you spend; however, we need to change this perception. Typically the more competitive clubs and teams have higher fees and if your daughter should make a top team, think of it as an important investment in their future. They will be building their skills and physical fitness while learning to get along with teammates and coaches. When on a competitive club team, the likelihood of being noticed by other coaches and scouts is much greater. Think of it in the same way you pay for college: paying for each and every lecture. Each practice or conditioning session is an opportunity to improve and most importantly have fun – which is priceless.