Club Volleyball or often called JO volleyball (Junior Olympic Volleyball), are organizations that train athletes in the sport of volleyball so they can compete following the normal school season. Volleyball clubs are independent of each other and privately owned. The word “club” typically describes an organization that has teams at many different age groups and levels. Clubs vary in size from 1 or 2 teams to up to 40 plus (OVA-TBVA has 80 teams between our four locations).
Governing Bodies
Volleyball clubs can play or sponsor events sanctioned by governing organizations such as USA Volleyball, AAU, or JVA). Players will register at the beginning of each season to one or more of these organizations so they can participate in their events.
Season Length
The duration of the season varies depending on the number of events a team plans to participate in. The season can start with tryouts in October and run through July. The season can culminate in June by a team electing to participate in the AAU National Volleyball Championships (or late June early July if they qualify for the Junior Olympic National Championships). Qualifying events are held around the country throughout the season.
Is Club For Me?
Club volleyball can be costly, so therefore it is important to determine if it is the right fit for your child. If an athlete is just looking to play for fun and to be with their friends, there are less expensive alternatives. Athletes that come to the club program are looking for better competition and to elevate their game with the hopes of eventually playing at an Elite level.
That’s not to say there isn’t a place for them at OTVA if they are a novice. We are looking for young ladies who are passionate about the sport and we can teach them the rest. Our teams are divided by skill level within each age group. We have team options that range from beginner to Elite, and from “no travel” to “out-of-state travel”. The highest skilled players are chosen for our Asics or Molten teams.
Why is club a "must" for college?
Club volleyball is the primary method by which college coaches recruit high school players. Due to the fact that both the NCAA woman’s volleyball season and girl’s high school season occuring in the fall, very few NCAA programs recruit during the high school season. Instead they choose regional and national events during the club season to see as many athletes as they can. OVA-TBVA participates in as many of these events as possible.
Making a Team
Each club or JO program usually holds their own tryout. Tryout formats vary from club to club. There is a registration fee for participating in tryouts. Usually 10 – 12 players are selected by age group. At OVA-TBVA we offer age groups from 10-18. If selected, a player will be offered a spot on the team and required to sign a contract, which commits that player to that club for the season. If a selected player leaves tryouts without accepting and signing the contract, it will be deemed a refusal of the position and the position will be awarded to another player.
Cost
This varies by team and the number of events they will be participate in. See the Team Comparison Chart for a breakdown of what will be provided to each athlete as well as cost by team level.
Time Commitment
Depending on the team, practice may be 2-3 times per week with tournaments and/or power leagues 2-3 weekends a month. In addition players may be required to participate in specialty sessions, such as setting and are required to participate in our speed/strength performance training.
Why OTVA
Not all clubs are created equal! You are comparing the experience of the coaching staff, facilities, travel schedule, performance training to prevent injury, history of winning and ability to provide your child the exposure they need to maybe play at the collegiate level. OTVA is the #1 club in the state of Florida and strives to be the premier provider of training in the state as well as the nation.
Need More Info?
Check out our FAQs page!