High School Season is Officially Here — Make the Most of It

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>August 13 officially marked the first day of high school girls volleyball in Nevada. From returning varsity standouts to athletes stepping onto the high school court for the first time, we're excited to see the talent that emerges across the state this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>No matter what grade you are in or what team you made, this season is an opportunity to grow your game, build your reputation, strengthen your recruiting profile and become a better teammate. You don't have to wait until junior or senior year to start preparing for what comes next.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Here are a few simple ways to make the most of your high school season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">For All Players</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Communication Needs to Become Second Nature</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Communication should become one of the most consistent parts of your game. Whether you are naturally an introvert or extrovert, once you step onto the court, you have to find that inner dawg, get rid of the fear and <strong>open your mouth</strong>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Coaches love players who communicate, and your teammates will appreciate it too. There is ALWAYS something that can be communicated whether you are on the court, waiting to sub in or supporting from the bench.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>And communication goes way beyond yelling “mine.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Here's how you can help yourself get noticed by your coach, help your teammates in the process and speak up for yourself:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Communicate for Yourself</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Call the ball early and loudly.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Let your setter know what is open for you offensively.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Tell passers when you are taking a short ball or seam.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Ask questions when you don't understand a drill, assignment or rotation.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>If you aren't sure about your role, respectfully ask your coach what they need to see from you.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Ask for feedback instead of guessing what your coach is thinking.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Communicate injuries, soreness or issues before they become bigger problems.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Own mistakes. A simple “my bad, I got the next one” shows maturity.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Communicate for Your Teammates</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Great communication isn't only about helping yourself. Make the players around you better.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Call hitters and attackers for your blockers.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Tell defenders what shots you are seeing.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Help teammates identify open areas on the court.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Call seams in serve receive.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Let your setter know when a hitter has no blocker or a favorable matchup.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Encourage teammates immediately after an error.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Remind teammates about rotations, assignments and responsibilities without criticizing them.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Celebrate the little things — a great pass, touch off the block, hustle play or smart swing.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The best communicators make the game easier for everyone around them.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Make an Impact From the Bench</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Not being on the court doesn't mean you aren't part of the match.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Players on the bench have one of the best views in the gym and can provide information that players on the floor might not see.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Call out tips and roll shots.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Identify hitters' tendencies.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Tell your blockers whether hitters are going line or cross.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Help identify setter dumps.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Call short serves.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Communicate open areas of the opponent's court.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Celebrate teammates with genuine energy.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Stay engaged instead of disappearing mentally because you aren't playing.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Be ready when your number is called.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A player who stays locked in while not playing shows coaches a lot about her maturity and team-first mentality.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Get Noticed by Your Coach</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Getting noticed doesn't always mean hitting the hardest or getting the most kills.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Coaches notice consistency.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>They notice the player who:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Gets to practice early and is ready to work.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Communicates without being reminded.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Chases every ball.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Better the ball when a perfect play isn't available.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Takes coaching and immediately tries to apply it.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Competes during drills.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Makes teammates better.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Shows good body language after mistakes.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Works hard whether the coach is watching or not.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Knows rotations and assignments.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Takes care of the small responsibilities.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Asks productive questions.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Doesn't shut down when things aren't going her way.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Talent will get attention. <strong>Consistency, effort and coachability build trust.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">What's Important</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>No matter your position, grade or level, there are several things every player should prioritize this season:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Be coachable.</strong> Listen, apply feedback and don't take correction personally.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Communicate.</strong> Your teammates should hear you consistently.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Build trust.</strong> Chase every ball and find a way to better it.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Know your role.</strong> If you're unsure, talk to your coach.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Strength train.</strong> Continue building strength, explosiveness and injury resistance throughout the season.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Take care of your body.</strong> Sleep, hydration, nutrition and recovery matter.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Be a good teammate.</strong> Your attitude affects the entire gym.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Most importantly — HAVE FUN!</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>High school volleyball goes by faster than you think. Compete hard, but don't forget to enjoy the people, matches, bus rides, practices and memories that come with it.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Maximize Your Social Media</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Your social media can become a recruiting tool if you use it correctly.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Add your high school schedule to your page.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pin your schedule and post it to your story/highlights.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Clearly indicate which team you are on — Freshman, JV or Varsity.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Update your bio with your high school, graduation year, position and jersey number.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Frequently post recent stats, highlights and clips.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Keep your Hudl or highlight video updated.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>You can obtain your high school statistics from <a href="http://maxpreps.com/">MaxPreps</a>.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Follow college programs and coaches on Instagram and X.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Keep your profile public enough for coaches to easily find your volleyball content.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Make sure your page represents you appropriately as a student-athlete.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If a college coach or program interacts with your video, don't be afraid to engage. Follow the program and consider sending an introductory email shortly afterward.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Emailing Coaches</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>College coaches receive a lot of emails, so make yours easy to read.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Think about your subject line first: <strong>Would it make you want to open the email?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Your first few sentences matter too. Short, specific and personal is usually better than writing several long paragraphs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Include:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Your name, graduation year, position, high school and club.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Height and other relevant position information.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>One sentence showing that you researched the program.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Your team record or previous season finish when relevant.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Academic interests or potential major.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Athletic and academic achievements.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Your current high school schedule.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Upcoming home matches or tournaments.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>A highlight video link.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Your volleyball social media accounts.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Your contact information and your coach's contact information when appropriate.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Don't make your first email your last email.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Reconnect:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>During the middle of the season.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Before important tournaments or playoff matches.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>If your team qualifies for postseason play.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>At the end of the season.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>After receiving All-Conference, All-State or other postseason recognition.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>When you have meaningful new film or updated statistics.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Also pay attention to NCAA recruiting calendar dates for Division I and Division II programs. Quiet periods, dead periods and other recruiting restrictions can affect when and how coaches communicate with prospects.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://ncaaorg.s3.amazonaws.com/compliance/recruiting/calendar/2026-27/2026-27D1Rec_WVBRecruitingCalendar.pdf">Access the NCAA Division I Women's Volleyball Recruiting Calendar here.</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":1} --> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">Now Let's Break It Down by Grade</h1> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Every year of high school should look a little different. You don't need to do everything at once, but you should continue adding to your game, résumé and recruiting preparation each season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Freshman</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Freshman year is about <strong>adjusting, developing and creating good habits</strong>. Whether you made Freshman, JV or Varsity, don't become too focused on what team someone else made.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>You have four years ahead of you. Use this season to build the foundation.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Learn how high school volleyball works and adjust to the faster pace.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Focus heavily on technique and fundamentals.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Become comfortable communicating.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Develop good practice habits.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Start strength training correctly.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Learn multiple positions or skills when possible.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Start saving good film from matches.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Create a volleyball-specific social media presence if college volleyball is a goal.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Watch varsity matches and learn from older players.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Don't panic about recruiting yet — <strong>develop first.</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If you're already playing varsity as a freshman, enjoy the opportunity, but don't skip the development phase. Being ahead now doesn't mean you stop working.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sophomore</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Sophomore year is when players should begin becoming much more intentional.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>You now have a year of high school experience. Start identifying what separates you from other players at your position and what needs to improve before junior year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Work toward earning a varsity role if you haven't already.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Know your strengths and weaknesses.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Start tracking your statistics.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Build and regularly update your highlight video.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Make sure your social media bio includes your graduation year, position, school and club.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Begin researching colleges at different levels.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Follow programs that genuinely interest you.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Attend camps where you can receive quality training and exposure.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Continue developing physically through strength and conditioning.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Become someone your coach trusts in important situations.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Sophomore year is also a great time to begin learning about the recruiting process before it becomes stressful.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Junior</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Junior year is a <strong>major recruiting year</strong> for athletes who want to play college volleyball.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Development still matters, but now you should be much more proactive about exposure and communication.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Consistently email programs you're interested in.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Keep your highlight video current.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Send your high school and club schedules to coaches.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Research schools beyond volleyball — academics, location, majors, cost and campus environment matter.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Attend camps at programs you are seriously interested in.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Track your statistics and accomplishments.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Ask your high school and club coaches for honest feedback about your projected college level.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Be realistic but don't be afraid to reach.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Continue improving your weaknesses instead of only showcasing your strengths.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Be prepared for coaches to evaluate your body language, communication and effort just as much as your highlights.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If you aren't receiving recruiting attention yet, <strong>do not automatically assume it's too late</strong>. Expand your school list, improve your film and keep reaching out.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Senior</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Senior year should be about <strong>finishing strong</strong>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Whether you are committed, still searching for an opportunity or simply finishing your final high school season, don't mentally check out.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Your teammates are watching you, especially the younger ones.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>If you're uncommitted, continue contacting programs.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Expand your search across NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA and other college options.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Send coaches updated film and statistics.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Keep your grades strong.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Apply to schools and complete financial aid requirements on time.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>If you're committed, continue developing instead of assuming your spot is guaranteed.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Lead younger teammates.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Leave your high school program better than you found it.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Play with urgency — you don't get senior season back.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Enjoy the moments that have nothing to do with recruiting.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>And remember: <strong>your final high school season still matters even if your college decision has already been made.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Be a leader. Be a teammate. Compete.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>And have fun.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Make This Season Count</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Whether you're a freshman putting on your first high school jersey or a senior beginning your final run, there is something you can accomplish this season that moves you forward.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>You don't have to be the player scoring 20 kills every night to make an impact.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Communicate. Compete. Be coachable. Support your teammates. Take care of your body. Keep improving.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>And when an opportunity comes your way, make sure you're ready for it.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Nevada high school volleyball is officially back. Let's see who makes the most of it.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->