Finding the Right Club Fit: What Parents and Players Should Know

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We're just a little over a week away from club volleyball tryouts across the Midwest, and one of the most common questions I've been asked lately is simple: “What club is the best?”

The answer? There isn't one.

Every player is different, every family's priorities are unique, and not every club is going to be the right fit for every athlete — and that's perfectly okay. What matters most is understanding your player's goals, their development needs, and finding a program that supports both.

Over the last few weeks, I've spoken with several players who have already been through the recruiting process — the “veterans” who've learned from years of club experiences. I asked them one simple question: “Why your club?” Their answers were all different, yet every one of them reflected purpose. They wanted a program that aligned with their goals, one that challenged them to grow while providing accountability and high standards.

For some, playing in national qualifiers was a top priority because they wanted exposure beyond the Midwest. For others, it was about daily development — working with coaches who pushed them to become better players and better teammates. The common thread? They joined programs that fit them, not programs they were persuaded to join because their friends were there.

That's one of the biggest pieces of advice that kept coming up:
Don't choose a club based on where your friends are playing. Volleyball friendships will come and go — and many of the athletes I spoke to said their closest relationships actually came from branching out and joining new teams. Every player's journey is different, and so are their goals. Your best friend might want a strong social experience; you might be chasing a college opportunity. Both are valid, but they're not the same.

So, how do you figure out what's right for your player? Here are a few key areas to evaluate when deciding which program truly fits.

The single most important factor in any season is coaching. Coaches set the tone for the team, create the culture, and shape how athletes grow both on and off the court.

Before committing to a club, find out who your athlete will be working with. Do they emphasize skill development? Are they communicators who give feedback and teach the “why” behind the game? Do they value both individual growth and team cohesion?

A great coach doesn't just run drills — they develop players. They see potential where others might not and help athletes refine both their technical and mental game. Don't hesitate to ask about their coaching philosophy or background. The right coach can make a season unforgettable for all the right reasons.

🚩 Red Flag: Be cautious if a club director or coach takes full credit for a player's success. No one person “makes” an athlete. Every player spends time in school programs, attends camps, and often takes private lessons outside of club. Coaches play a big role, but they should never claim all the credit. The best ones will celebrate the athlete's work ethic, not their own résumé.

The best clubs invest in their players beyond the win–loss record. That support can take many forms: college recruiting guidance, film sessions, extra skill clinics, or mentorship opportunities.

Ask specific questions:

A good program should feel like a partnership between the athlete, the family, and the coaching staff. You want to know your player isn't just a jersey number, but someone the club genuinely invests in.

One of the most overlooked aspects of club selection is the schedule — and how it fits your athlete's goals and your family's capacity.

Ask about the tournament calendar and travel expectations. Are practices and events local, regional, or national? Does the team plan to attend major qualifiers or stay within state competition?

Exposure is important, but bigger tournaments don't always mean better opportunities. For some athletes, local and regional events offer more playing time and confidence-building reps. For others with college ambitions, national tournaments might provide the right visibility. The key is finding balance — enough competition to challenge your player without overwhelming them or your family's schedule.

👉 Tip: Before signing, ask if your team is already registered for all tournaments or if they're still on a waitlist. This can make a major difference in travel planning, exposure opportunities, and overall experience.

Every club has its own personality. Some focus on elite-level competition; others emphasize community and multi-sport flexibility. Neither is wrong, but knowing what environment your athlete thrives in will make a big difference.

Does your player respond best to intense, high-demand coaching? Or do they need a developmental setting that focuses more on growth and confidence-building? Culture impacts everything — motivation, effort, and even long-term love for the game.

Visit a practice if possible. Observe how coaches interact with players. Are athletes communicating, engaged, and having fun? Do they respect their coaches and teammates? The culture you join will shape your athlete's experience far more than the name on the jersey.

Before tryouts, take time as a family to talk through what your player truly wants out of club volleyball.

If they're looking to play collegiately, that path may require joining a program with a strong recruiting network or national travel schedule. If they want to focus on development, confidence, and competition without the recruiting aspect, a smaller or regional club may be the perfect fit.

There's no wrong answer — but clarity helps. Setting expectations early prevents disappointment later.

Your athlete may be trying out for multiple teams — and that's a good thing. Each opportunity gives them a chance to see different environments and coaching styles.

As a parent, you play a vital role here. Don't be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and gather information. You are your child's advocate, and no question is a dumb question. Whether it's about cost, travel expectations, tournament schedules, or coaching philosophy — the more you know, the better equipped you'll be to make an informed decision.

Tryout season can bring out a lot of opinions — from other parents, from players, from social media. Everyone has an idea of what's “best,” but remember: no one knows your athlete like you do.

Ignore the chatter. Focus on your player's progress, not comparisons. A club that's right for someone else may not offer what your athlete needs most. Growth, confidence, and enjoyment are all part of the journey — and those thrive in the right environment, not necessarily the biggest one.

The upcoming club season is full of opportunity. Whether your athlete is stepping into their first year or preparing for the next stage of their journey, the right club can make all the difference.

When you walk into tryouts, remember — this isn't just about making a team. It's about finding a program that aligns with your goals, fits your family's priorities, and supports your athlete as both a player and a person.

No club can guarantee success, but the right fit can unlock potential you didn't even know was there. Choose purposefully, ask questions, and most importantly — trust your athlete's instincts.

The right club for your player is out there. You just have to find the one that helps them grow, compete, and love the game even more. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas

Disclaimer:
Please note that this list highlights just a selection of clubs across North Dakota, South Dakota, and parts of Minnesota. It is not a complete directory. Each club operates independently with its own structure, teams, and philosophy. The links provided go directly to each club's official Instagram account, where you can find more information, updates, and contact details for any questions. Use this as a starting point to explore, research, and connect directly with clubs to determine which program best fits your athlete's goals.

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I'll personally be at Bloomington on Dec. 14 for all interested 2026-2029 prospects following the 2025 fall season. Click here to register for 2028-2029 or click here to register for 2026-2027 and use promo code “HICKMANPD25” to get $10 off your registration.

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