The Last Chance Newsletter! As we approach the end of the month, we're presenting a unique opportunity with two sessions commencing in June and extending for two months.   This is your exclusive chance to be a part of these sessions, which have the potential to transform your volleyball game.

Beach Sessions The beach sessions are fully booked, but we have space for four more teams to join the 13-18 Beach 2's Boys on Monday and Wednesday from 4-6 pm. These sessions, led by Darren Cannell, offer a unique opportunity to train in the elements, enhancing your speed, agility, strength, and skills. These improvements are highly transferable to the indoor game of volleyball. Take advantage of this chance to elevate your game. Find out More? Academy League The second last-chance item is the Girls' league, which will take place in June and July. The Boys' league was unfortunately cancelled due to a lack of registrations, and the girls' league was moved from Friday to Thursday. We are thrilled to present the first summer Academy League. If you register for this league, please note that no coaches or coaching occurs during these games; it is a chance to play the game. This is another opportunity to allow athletes of all skills and ages to play the game. There will be music, referees and lots of games, making it a fun and inclusive experience. Find out More? Making The Cut Camp While this is not the final opportunity, as there is still time before it takes place, it is the highly competitive Making the Cut Camp. The challenge lies in the limited number of available spaces. The boy's camps need more participants, but the girls' camps are filling up fast. Secure your spot and register before it's too late. Find out More? School Day Academy The last event I would like to highlight is New School Day Academy. This is an unusual session as it is during the school day.   It is also the only event that we select the athletes that can attend. If not enough athletes fit the criteria, the event will not happen. We ran this event just before COVID happened, and it was one of the most intense, high-level skill, jump training and mental training events. It was also one of those events which changed the athletes' volleyball game, giving them a plan and process to help them achieve their volleyball goals. This is not an event for every athlete. This event is for the dedicated, focused, goal-orientated, talented athlete. Are you interested in completing the application to start the process? Find out More? QUOTES WORTH READING... 1. Sinjin Smith, 1996 Olympian, winner of 139 professional beach titles: “Don’t fire your opponents up. If they’re down, don’t tick them off. Let them stay down.” No matter the sport, this is good advice. If the match is going well, why do something like shout through the net and give the players on the other side more motivation to turn the match around? Winning is tough enough. Don’t make it tougher by giving your opponent one more reason to want to beat you.  2. Adrian Crook, fitness trainer who worked with three-time gold medalist Karch Kiraly in preparation for the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta: “People [often] equate power with muscle size, but oftentimes, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Muscularity is important, but upper-body power comes from the ability to generate maximum speed in the fullest, most mechanically correct range of motion, and this is achieved by acquiring flexibility.” This echoes what I’ve heard from many trainers over the years, and it reinforces the idea that strength training is not all about building the muscles that you see in the mirror. Chances are, you can reduce the number of curls you’re doing and increase some other area of resistance or flexibility work that will be more beneficial to your volleyball game. On this subject, Kiraly, who is currently the head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team, wrote recently in Volleyball USA about five exercises that build important “functional strength” for players, none of which involves weights. They are body-weight squats, side lunges, forward lunges, pushups, and planks. Work these into your routine and you’ll find that everything you do on the court becomes a little easier. 3. Arnie Ball, men’s volleyball coach at IPFW, father of Olympic gold medalist Lloy Ball: “Too many people get in a position of authority and aren’t willing to get down on the floor and belly laugh with five- and six-year-olds.” This one made me laugh when Arnie said it to me 20 years ago. I was in Fort Wayne to do a story on him, Lloy and the IPFW program, and this was his response when I asked him about his jovial interaction with young kids at a volleyball clinic put on by his men’s team. It resonates with me more now than ever because it speaks to the importance of treating everybody, no matter their age or standing in life, with respect. It also highlights the rewards that can come from going the extra mile to connect with people.  4. Aldis Berzins, starting outside hitter on the 1984 Olympic gold medal team, former USA assistant coach:  “A weak block makes for an easy tool shot. If you’re the blocker and you’re out of position, don’t reach toward the spiker. Instead, stop and get over the net. This creates three positives out of a bad situation: 1. You’re pressing over the net, and even though you won’t be fronting the hitter, the hitter may hit into you. 2. Your defenders will have a clear view of the attack and that will give them a better chance to make the dig. 3. You won’t get tooled.” I like this one because it speaks to a complaint I’ve often heard from defenders – both indoors and on the beach – about blockers who are all over the place at the net. Putting up a stable, well-formed block is almost always a better option than making radical moves one way or another to compensate for being out of position.  5. John Kessel, director of sport development for USA Volleyball: “If you’re going miss a serve, miss, long rather than into the net. When you serve long, there’s still a chance the other team will play it.” Self-explanatory. A ball served into the net will never earn you a point.  6. Doug Beal, USA Volleyball CEO, coach of the 1984 U.S. men’s Olympic gold medal team: “Good players rarely look like the game is stressful for them, and they never seem rushed because they adjust their position all the time based on what’s happening. They’re always compensating for the movement of their teammates and the movement on the other side of the court, whether it’s blocking or backcourt.” Doug said this to me one time when I watched a match with him from the stands so I could pick his brain about what high-level coaches look for in good volleyball prospects. This statement highlights something that I’m sure most people understand but may not always think about – impressing coaches has as much to do with taking care of the little things as it does with hitting, passing, serving, blocking, digging and setting.  7. Karch Kiraly: “Over the years, I realized that if I’d done everything possible to prepare myself for matches and tournaments, it took a weight off my shoulders and allowed me to play without fear of losing. When you’ve done everything you can to train yourself for competition, you’ll sleep well when the tournament is over, win or lose.” This is one of my all-time favorite Karch quotes. Yes, he is innately gifted, and the 40-inch vertical jump certainly helped him during his playing career. But what you realize when you get to know Karch is how much of his success comes from diligence and preparation. I recently re-read a chapter in the book “Outliers” about 10,000 hours is the amount of time it takes to master something, whether it’s sports, music or anything you’re interested in learning beyond a surface level. The point is not that putting in long hours over years and years will make you an Olympic gold medalist or a concert pianist, but, as the book points out, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence that tells us that if you put that much time and effort into something, you will be very, very good at it. And being very, very good at something is a good thing. 8. April Ross, Olympic beach silver medalist: “If you can be OK with the worst-case scenario, that frees you up to go into a situation and give it your all and be OK with the outcome no matter what. That's how I think about things.” April’s quote ties in well with Karch’s quote about preparation. Losing a volleyball match or making a mistake on the court is not a big deal as long as you know that you have done everything you possibly can to prepare for success. This message is not to be confused with not putting in the work necessary to maximize your potential and then just shrugging off mistakes or losses. Big difference.  9. Foluke Akinradewo, starting middle on the U.S. women’s national team, 2012 Olympian, All American at Stanford: “On the surface, a duck looks nice and calm, but underneath the surface of the water it’s trying really hard to stay afloat. At Stanford, it may seem like everyone is a genius, but they have to work really hard to get there.” Foluke said this to me when describing a story she’d been told during her freshman year at Stanford when she was feeling stress about the pressure that came with being surrounded by exceptionally smart students. The point: Success doesn’t come easy to anybody, even the gifted. Foluke said that realizing this helped reduce her anxiety about measuring up with her classmates at Stanford.  10. Terry Liskevych, Oregon State women’s coach, former USA women’s national team coach: “Do it now. Procrastination can be a great enemy.” This quote is included in a section called “Life” in the 11-page “Liskevych Philosophy,” which he put together while coaching the USA team. This is one of those things that’s widely known but rarely followed, and I’ve always liked the way Terry emphasizes that putting something off until tomorrow can be your “enemy.” Think that’s too strong? Reflect on it next time you’re coming home from volleyball practice and have to research and write a 10-page paper that’s due first thing in the morning. Put that way, “enemy” sounds about right, doesn’t it?

 

What, When, Why, Where Everything you wanted to know.

The Canadian Elite Academy Our Academy bears the name "Canadian Elite Academy" for a reason deeply rooted in our philosophy and mission. Let's break it down: "Canadian" serves as an adjective, representing not just a geographical identity but a collective ethos, embodying the spirit and values of Canada and its people. The term "Elite," as defined by the MacMillan Dictionary, carries dual meanings: as a noun, it refers to a select group distinguished by numerous advantages, often comprising the best individuals within a domain. As an adjective, "Elite" signifies quality and excellence, symbolizing the pinnacle of achievement within a given context. "Academy" conveys a sense of authority and leadership, denoting a collective endeavour to foster growth and excellence by establishing standards, methodologies, and constructive critique. Hence, the amalgamation of these terms into "Canadian Elite Academy" encapsulates our commitment to cultivating excellence within our athletes, irrespective of their starting point. We believe in nurturing each individual's potential to reach their pinnacle of achievement within their respective domains. Our foundational principles reinforce this commitment: Continuous Improvement: We believe in the transformative power of deliberate practice and strive to ensure that every participant leaves our Academy better equipped than when they arrived. Our focus remains steadfast on facilitating tangible progress day by day. Inclusive Environment: We have consciously crafted a non-political, non-threatening, and non-profit environment where skill development takes center stage. Our doors are open to all, regardless of gender, age, or skill level, fostering a community where everyone can thrive. Intrapersonal Competition: Our emphasis lies not in pitting participants against one another but in fostering healthy competition within oneself. Each athlete is encouraged to surpass their limitations, constantly pushing the boundaries of their capabilities. Barrier-Free Access: We firmly believe in removing obstacles that may hinder participation, ensuring that every aspiring athlete has equal access to our resources and expertise. Individualized Approach: Unlike traditional academies, we eschew tryouts and predetermined teams. Instead, we empower parents and participants to tailor their experience based on individual preferences and aspirations. Coach-Led Development: While our coaches play a pivotal role in guiding and mentoring participants, we refrain from dictating team compositions or recruiting players. Our focus remains firmly on skill enhancement and personal growth. Self-Reflection and Improvement: We encourage participants to cultivate a mindset of introspection, enabling them to identify areas for improvement and chart their paths toward excellence. A relentless pursuit of personal bests replaces external comparisons. In essence, the Canadian Elite Academy stands as a beacon of excellence, dedicated to unlocking each individual's inherent potential. Our mission transcends mere athletic prowess; it encompasses the holistic development of character, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of personal excellence. Jump Training: Unlock the Potential As we gear up for the upcoming school or club team selections, one question frequently surfaces: What steps can my child take to enhance their chances of making the team this year? In this newsletter, we aim to address this query comprehensively while offering valuable resources and insights to aid in your preparation. First and foremost, we understand the significance of this inquiry. To assist you in this endeavour, we've curated free resources designed to bolster your child's athletic performance and mental resilience. Jump Training: Unlock Your Potential Amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic, there has been a notable uptick in athlete injuries. To counteract this trend and elevate your volleyball game, we emphasize the importance of jump training. Our program is meticulously crafted to teach athletes the correct techniques for jumping and landing, which are crucial for injury prevention and performance enhancement. Athletes can instill newfound confidence in their volleyball service, spiking, and blocking skills by honing their vertical jump. We're excited to offer jump training sessions led by highly qualified instructors to facilitate this. These sessions extend beyond the summer months, providing consistent guidance and support to athletes seeking to elevate their game. Please use this opportunity by registering for our monthly sessions when available.   The following is a free resource developed during Covid-19 that can be used to develop a home jump training program at no cost. https://classroom.google.com/c/MjMwMTU3MDk0MDU0?cjc=ywlrci2&utm_source=Canadian+Elite+Academy&utm_campaign=db1cef485d-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2024_05_15_08_07&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-db1cef485d-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D Mental Training: Strengthen Your Mindset In addition to physical preparation, we recognize the pivotal role of mental fortitude in athletic success. Our mental training course equips athletes with invaluable strategies to enhance focus, resilience, and overall performance. Through targeted exercises and expert guidance, participants will cultivate a winning mindset essential for navigating the challenges of competitive sports. Embrace this opportunity to sharpen your mental acuity and elevate your game. The following is a free resource developed during Covid-19 that can be used to develop a home jump training program at no cost. https://classroom.google.com/c/MjMwMTUyNTY1MTE3?cjc=oy2ivbh&utm_source=Canadian+Elite+Academy&utm_campaign=db1cef485d-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2024_05_15_08_07&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-db1cef485d-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D In conclusion, we hope these free resources serve as valuable tools in your journey toward securing a spot on the school or club team. Remember, success on the Court is not solely determined by talent but by the dedication, preparation, and resilience you bring to the game. Let's strive for excellence and make this upcoming season one to remember. Why is each athlete expected to bring their own ball to the Academy?   At our Academy, we have a simple yet fundamental expectation: each athlete must bring their own ball to every session, school day, and camp. This practice isn't just a matter of convenience; it's rooted in our belief that true excellence in sports requires dedication beyond scheduled practices and coach-led sessions. We hold firm to the conviction that elite athletes are forged not only on the field but also in the solitude of personal practice. Mastery of skills demands consistent effort and repetition, both within and outside of structured training environments. By providing athletes with activities they can pursue independently, we empower them to take ownership of their development and strive for excellence on their own terms. However, this autonomy hinges on access to a ball—the quintessential tool for honing one's craft. In essence, bringing their own ball serves as a tangible reminder of each athlete's commitment to their growth and aspirations. It symbolizes not only a dedication to the sport but also a willingness to invest time and effort outside of formal training sessions—an indispensable trait of champions in the making. Therefore, by adhering to this simple practice, athletes not only enhance their technical skills but also cultivate the discipline and resilience essential for success in sports and beyond. It's a small yet significant step towards realizing their full potential as athletes and individuals. Together, let's embrace the journey of continual improvement and strive for greatness—one ball at a time. We do sell volleyball at the academy.  Check our store for costs.  Check online and let us know if you find some cheaper.    Academy Store Why Indoor players should do Beach Volleyball Training? Sand, often utilized for beach volleyball training, is a transformative arena for indoor volleyball players seeking to elevate their game. Here's why: Enhanced Physical Fitness: The sandy terrain presents a formidable challenge, demanding heightened muscular engagement and stability. Training in this dynamic environment fosters strength, power, agility, and cardiovascular endurance, providing a comprehensive fitness regimen that seamlessly translates to indoor courts' stable surfaces. Increased Vertical Jump: Negotiating the soft, unstable sand necessitates explosive power and precise control, amplifying the intensity of jumping and landing. Consequently, athletes experience substantial gains in vertical leap, a pivotal asset for executing formidable blocks, powerful attacks, and agile defensive maneuvers in both indoor and beach volleyball settings. Improved Balance and Stability: The ever-shifting sands demand constant adjustments in body positioning, refining athletes' proprioceptive awareness—their innate sense of spatial orientation. This honed sense of balance and stability enhances court movement, body control, and rapid responses, bolstering players' effectiveness on indoor courts. Enhanced Stamina and Endurance: Conquering the resistance of sand entails heightened exertion, fostering robust stamina and cardiovascular fitness. Regular sand training sessions cultivate endurance, enabling players to sustain peak performance levels over extended durations during indoor matches. Tactical Adaptations: Beach volleyball's distinct dynamics—such as fewer players per team and the sand's unique challenges—prompt strategic adaptability and all-around skill development. Players must embrace broader responsibilities and adapt their techniques and strategies to the sand's slower, unpredictable nature. These tactical nuances refine decision-making and versatility, enriching players' prowess upon their return to indoor competition. While sand training undoubtedly enriches players' skill sets and physical prowess, it's imperative to acknowledge that indoor and beach volleyball possess distinct intricacies. Each variant demands specialized skills and strategic acumen. Sand training, therefore, serves as a valuable supplement to indoor preparation, enhancing players' athleticism and adaptability across both realms of the sport. Yet, it's essential to recognize that it complements rather than substitutes traditional indoor training methodologies. This version underscores the multifaceted benefits of beach volleyball training for indoor players while emphasizing the importance of recognizing the unique attributes of each form of the sport. Register for Beach Why Indoor players should do Beach Volleyball Training? Sand, often utilized for beach volleyball training, is a transformative arena for indoor volleyball players seeking to elevate their game. Here's why: Enhanced Physical Fitness: The sandy terrain presents a formidable challenge, demanding heightened muscular engagement and stability. Training in this dynamic environment fosters strength, power, agility, and cardiovascular endurance, providing a comprehensive fitness regimen that seamlessly translates to indoor courts' stable surfaces. Increased Vertical Jump: Negotiating the soft, unstable sand necessitates explosive power and precise control, amplifying the intensity of jumping and landing. Consequently, athletes experience substantial gains in vertical leap, a pivotal asset for executing formidable blocks, powerful attacks, and agile defensive maneuvers in both indoor and beach volleyball settings. Improved Balance and Stability: The ever-shifting sands demand constant adjustments in body positioning, refining athletes' proprioceptive awareness—their innate sense of spatial orientation. This honed sense of balance and stability enhances court movement, body control, and rapid responses, bolstering players' effectiveness on indoor courts. Enhanced Stamina and Endurance: Conquering the resistance of sand entails heightened exertion, fostering robust stamina and cardiovascular fitness. Regular sand training sessions cultivate endurance, enabling players to sustain peak performance levels over extended durations during indoor matches. Tactical Adaptations: Beach volleyball's distinct dynamics—such as fewer players per team and the sand's unique challenges—prompt strategic adaptability and all-around skill development. Players must embrace broader responsibilities and adapt their techniques and strategies to the sand's slower, unpredictable nature. These tactical nuances refine decision-making and versatility, enriching players' prowess upon their return to indoor competition. While sand training undoubtedly enriches players' skill sets and physical prowess, it's imperative to acknowledge that indoor and beach volleyball possess distinct intricacies. Each variant demands specialized skills and strategic acumen. Sand training, therefore, serves as a valuable supplement to indoor preparation, enhancing players' athleticism and adaptability across both realms of the sport. Yet, it's essential to recognize that it complements rather than substitutes traditional indoor training methodologies. This version underscores the multifaceted benefits of beach volleyball training for indoor players while emphasizing the importance of recognizing the unique attributes of each form of the sport. Register for Beach Why Indoor players should do Beach Volleyball Training? The league is designed to foster peer learning and replace the informal pickup games of the past. Operating on the principles of discovery learning, it allows athletes to actively shape the content and pace of their learning. This approach, rooted in inquiry and self-direction, aims to cultivate self-reliance, independence, and creativity.. In line with these principles, the league refrains from direct instruction during games. Instead, players are encouraged to derive theories and skills from the dynamic environment, promoting experiential learning. We understand that this approach may differ from traditional coaching models, but we believe that the opportunity to play the game itself is what players need most at this stage. For those seeking more instructional sessions, our academy offers regular programs focused on skill development. The league is distinct from our instructional sessions. Our goal is to ensure clarity between these two formats. The discovery learning supports the belief that this approach will positively impact the development of our athletes as they become more comfortable in a non-instructional environment. If you are looking for instruction do not register for the league.  If you are looking for a place to play, register for the league Register for League Which level should I put my daughter/son in for the Making the Cut Camp? Choosing the appropriate level for the Making the Cut Camp is crucial for maximizing your child's development and readiness for school tryouts. These camps cater to high-level athletes, drawing participants from across the province. To ensure the best fit, consider the following guidelines: Junior High School Team Camp: This camp is the ideal choice if your child is a grade 9-10 student and wouldn't likely secure a spot on the senior team at some of the province's top schools. It's tailored to their skill level and provides a supportive environment for growth. High School Senior Team Camp: For grade 10-12 students aiming to make their school's senior team, this camp offers the perfect opportunity to hone their skills and showcase their abilities. However, if your child is in grade 10 but wouldn't be competitive at the senior level, consider the Junior High School Team Camp instead. Elementary School Camp: Designed specifically for elementary school students, this camp ensures age-appropriate instruction and challenges tailored to their developmental stage. It's the ideal setting for younger athletes to refine their skills and prepare for future opportunities. While some may view playing up in age groups as a badge of honour, I encourage athletes to excel within their own age group. This approach fosters leadership skills and allows them to shine among their peers. Each camp is crafted to provide individualized instruction and challenges to push your child's boundaries. Remember, true growth comes from embracing challenges at one's own level and striving to elevate those around you. Ultimately, the Academy respects each player's decision regarding camp selection, but we believe in guiding athletes toward opportunities where they can thrive and maximize their potential.  If the camp you wanted to register in is sold, consider registering in the boy's level one camp younger or the same group. Register for Camps Why is it not essential to tier athletes according to skills or gender at the Academy? At our Academy, we take a unique approach to athlete development—one that prioritizes individual growth and self-motivation over comparisons to others or rigid tiering based on skill or gender. Here's why: Emphasis on Self-Improvement: Our primary focus is not on competition but on the personal journey of each athlete. We believe that true progress comes from within, driven by an intrinsic desire to surpass one's own limits and continually strive for improvement. By fostering an environment where athletes are encouraged to measure their success against their own past achievements, we cultivate a mindset of self-motivation and lifelong learning. Inner Drive and Confidence: Elite athleticism isn't just about physical prowess—it's also about mental fortitude and inner confidence. Our training methodology centers on nurturing the inner drive and self-belief that propel athletes to greatness. Rather than relying on external validation or comparisons to others, we empower athletes to cultivate their own inner voice of motivation and resilience. Individualized Instruction and Challenge: Each athlete is unique, with their own strengths, weaknesses, and developmental trajectory. Our Academy provides individualized instruction and challenges tailored to each athlete's specific needs and aspirations. This approach ensures that athletes are challenged at the appropriate level and are equipped with the tools to excel on their own terms. Positive Body Language and Mindset: While technical skills are crucial, we also recognize the importance of positive body language and mindset in athletic success. Coaches at all levels, from youth to elite, emphasize the significance of confidence, focus, and teamwork. By fostering a culture of positivity and resilience, we empower athletes to showcase their best selves on and off the court. In summary, our Academy prioritizes the holistic development of athletes, fostering a culture of self-improvement, inner drive, and positive mindset. We believe that by empowering athletes to strive for personal excellence, we cultivate not only elite athletes but also resilient, confident individuals prepared to tackle any challenge that comes their way. So you got Cut off the School Team! Putting in the Time Many athletes face the disappointment of not making the school team, and as a parent, witnessing your child's disappointment can be heart-wrenching. However, it's essential to put this disappointment into perspective and understand the factors at play. Making the school team is no easy feat—it requires dedication, commitment, and a significant investment of time and effort. Past training, ball contact, playing time, and practice are among the most critical factors influencing an athlete's ability to secure a spot on the team. It's natural for parents to want to find external factors to blame for their child's disappointment. However, it's crucial to recognize that making the team is often the result of years of organized volleyball involvement, including club participation, camps, and training sessions. Many athletes who secure spots on larger school teams have invested four to five years in their volleyball journey, accumulating invaluable experience and skill along the way. Consider the sheer volume of athletes vying for a limited number of spots on the team—particularly in larger schools with multiple junior high teams. With over 100 athletes competing for a spot, it's inevitable that some will experience disappointment. This reality underscores the competitiveness of the tryout process and the challenges inherent in team selection. As a parent, it's important to support your child and encourage them to reflect on their performance objectively. Ask them if they genuinely feel they should have been selected for the team and help them understand the importance of self-awareness in assessing their abilities. Rather than seeking external excuses, focus on the factors within your child's control—their past efforts, activities, and sacrifices in their journey to improve in the sport. Encourage them to consider what they could do differently in the future to enhance their chances of success. Ultimately, earning a spot on the school team is about more than just desire—it requires dedication, preparation, and a willingness to put in the necessary work. Coaches can often discern which players have invested the time and effort between seasons, making the selection process more straightforward. While experiencing disappointment is undoubtedly challenging, it can also serve as a catalyst for growth and self-improvement. Encourage your child not to lose heart but to channel their disappointment into renewed determination and effort. Remember, the journey itself is a valuable lesson, and setbacks can provide the motivation needed to achieve future goals. In closing, while it's difficult to see your child experience disappointment, it's essential to recognize that earning a spot on the team is a valuable lesson in dedication and perseverance. Encourage your child to use this experience as fuel to drive their efforts and pursue their goals with renewed vigor.   Michael Jordan When I got cut from the Varsity team as a sophomore in high school, I learned something. I knew I never wanted to feel that bad again, to have that taste in my mouth, to have that hole in my stomach. So, I set a goal of becoming a starter on the varsity. I can accept failure; everyone fails at something. But I can't accept not trying again. Want to make the team? Wear your winner's face Don Patterson | AOC senior content manager ________________________________________ By the time you've walked into the gym for volleyball tryouts, your game is your game. You've practiced. You've trained. You've arrived at the gym on time – or at least you better have. And you're definitely not walking in head down, eyes glued to your phone, right? Right! So pretty much all that's left is to do your best. But there is one thing you can still control. Body language. And body language is a very big deal. Coaches from U.S. women's national team head coach Karch Kiraly on down will tell you that the look they see on your face, the way you carry yourself, and the way you interact with your teammates are key indicators for them as to whether they want you on their roster. Here are 3 reasons Karch gives for why he views positive body language as so important: 1. If you always look "as if everything is fine," it sends message to your opponents that "they can't crack you," even if they are winning handily. 2. It creates good energy on your side of the net that will likely rub off on your teammates. If you remain confident, focused, intense and upbeat in the face of adversity, it can have a big impact on the play of those around you. 3. If you "smile, walk upright and look like a winner," your own thoughts are likely to be more positive too, and that will lead to a higher level of confidence and, likely, better play. Jim Stone, head coach of USA Volleyball's Youth National Team and the former head coach of the Ohio State women's team, says a big "red flag" when he's evaluating players is any show of frustration toward a teammate – like eye-rolling. He also watches closely to see a player's body language when they're not directly involved in a play, and he takes particular note of how they carry themselves when their team is losing. "It's easy to look good when the team is playing well," he says. "But when things aren't going well, do they elevate their game, or do they get frustrated and start passing blame off on their teammates?" Good body language is about more than just looking upbeat and confident. Tod Mattox, head coach of the girls' team at Bishop's High School in La Jolla, California, gives players at his tryouts something specific to focus on during 6 on 6 scrimmages, then watches to see how well they follow instructions. "We might say, 'We want you to concentrate on staying in an athletic posture throughout every point,'" he says. "Then we watch to see who is getting out of posture and relaxing and who can process what we told them and stay in a bent, athletic posture for coverage all the time." As a player, you know how much time and effort it takes to improve each skill. Think of all the reps you've logged practice after practice, week after week. By comparison, the body language side of the game is fairly easy. No reps needed. Just smile, throw your shoulders back and be good to your teammates. It's simple enough, and it will not only give you a better shot at making the team, it'll make the whole tryout experience a lot more fun. ________________________________________ Don Patterson is the editor of DiG magazine and is the senior content director for Art of Coaching. Previously, he was a sportswriter for the Los Angeles Times and an editor at CBS Sports. How Good Can You Get? The exciting thing for me is the "How good can you get" schedule." At the Academy, an athlete can sign up for this group of sessions, which will change the way they play the game in three months.   Volleyball Overdose Schedule 1.) Beach 2's Training 2.) Jump Training 3.) Making the Cut Camp 4.) Private lessons on the Sand    It will be exciting to see how good some athletes can become. Register Quotes Our blood, our sweat, your tears. All Out, All Game, All Season A team above all.  Above all a team You set it in the air and I'll hit it anywhere Block this! Where the Spirit of Service & Spiking lives on! Foul Play Suspected We play daily – you play weakly Volleyball is our business and business is good Can you dig it? You just got served Welcome to the Block Party The New Kids on the Block Hustle hit and never quit Hustle and heart set us apart Volleyball 631. Six players. Three touches. Won. It's Goin' Down! Bump – Set – DOMINATE Meet me at the net Let's settle this at the net See you in Court Play from the heart It's An Air Affair! Heart is the difference between those who attempt and those who achieve Play like you're in first; train like you're in second The price of greatness is responsibility. When you play ball, leave it all Unfinished Business Fast and Furious. The true champion believes in the impossible. All things are difficult before they are easy. Winners in life don't always win; they just don't give up. Make good habits and they will make you. No one is a failure until they stop trying. It is very hard to win when your thoughts turn to losing. Opportunity may knock, but you must open the door. Defeat isn't bitter if you don't swallow it. The true champion loses many battles before winning the war. The greatest game you can win is won within. To be satisfied with yourself is a sure sign that your forward motion has stopped. It isn't the hours you put in, but what you put in the hours. The harder you work, the harder it is to lose. Sometimes it's not how GOOD you are, but how BAD you want it Make your competitive juices overcome your excuses Hard luck is composed of laziness, bad judgment, and poor execution. Victory comes to those who make the least mistakes. Reaching high keeps a man on his toes. Bad habits are like a good bed – easy to get into but difficult to get out of. "I can't do it" never yet accomplished anything – "I will try" has performed miracles. It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed. Bump it, Set it, Smack it down Winners train; Losers complain BUMP, SET, SPIKE IT. THAT'S THE WAY WE LIKE IT. Teamwork Makes The Dream Work. Intensity is not a perfume! Respect All, Fear None If its gotta be, it starts with me Refuse to Lose All it takes is all you've got It's what you do before the season start that makes a champion. ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING Championships are won at practice Play like a Champion Today Never let good enough BE enough! Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard