College volleyball summer camps are in full swing! To take full advantage of the opportunity, you need to stand out from the competition. This can be challenging when you are surrounded by so many great athletes! College coaches are evaluating how well you make adjustments, your personality, body language, technique, and leadership skills. Below are some tips you can use to STAND OUT!
1. Make eye contact with coaches when they are talking. It’s critical you give them your full attention. When coaches are giving you instruction it may differ from what you have been previously taught. Keep in mind there are various styles and this is an opportunity for a coach to see how well they work with you. Are you adaptable? How frustrated are you? Can you keep composure even when you are struggling?
2. Be the first athlete on the court! When you are in the gym, this is not the time to socialize. Playing college volleyball is a serious commitment. Yes, the coaches want you to have a good time and be a good teammate. However, they want to observe you be a serious dedicated athlete once you walk in the gym. If you take a water break, make it quick! Grab a drink and get back on the court ready to play.
3. Do not be shy! This is not the time to look around you and wait for the coach to call volunteers. Step on the court and OWN IT! This is the best opportunity you will have to make an impression. You need to show the coach this is what you want. This can be hard for student athletes who are on the shy side. Do the best you can to be aggressive.
4. Be Vocal! You will likely be surrounded by athletes you haven’t played with before. Communication is really important. Make sure you are loud and the athletes around you can hear you when you call for the ball.
5. Play with Enthusiasm! There is nothing worse than watching an athlete who has a bad attitude or poor body language. You have got to show a love for the sport. This doesn’t mean you need to throw yourself on the floor with every ball, and get really excited for every ball. But you definitely need to show you love to play, smile and have a good time. It’s hard to play well when you are frustrated with yourself.
For more recruiting tips, or guidance in the recruiting process, call me (Kara Hill) at (714) 323-8088 or send me an email at Kara@myrecruitingsolutions.com. I wish you the best of luck this summer season! Do not hesitate to reach out any time!
