How can I get on varsity?

How can I get good enough to play junior varsity volleyball next school year?

• I didn't get to play volleyball freshman year b/c of some issues with my parents but they are gonna let me play next school year. I'll be in tenth grade and I want to at least get on junior varsity. I know some of the volleyball skills. I'm good at setting, bumping and serving, just nit spiking so much. I'm also short (5'2", 112 pounds). I don't know if that is bad or good because most volleyball players are really tall. I'm a very strong server, I think I need to learn a little more control. How can I do this? So could I just get some tips on volleyball? Thanks.

• Answer:

  I know exactly how you feel, my parents wouldn't let me play when I was a freshmen, and it was difficult catching up during the club season. I'm guessing you have the basic rules and skills down, so just PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE. Here's some things you should concentrate on. You're serving problem can be very easily fixed. If you have access to a court, try to serve within the boundaries. If not, try different techniques to your serving to see what is best. Sometimes its only the really little things that can make a difference (like opening your hand and having the fingers spread apart). Here are some videos that might help... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmXc6qvdMG8 http://www.youtube.com/user/jrice81#p/u/116/_27kV4l3UYk With spiking, its really about your approach. Try the one-two-three system that can be found on the web. Remember to snap your wrist, jump, swing your arms on your approach. It takes A LOT of practice, so try your approach any and everywhere. Also, find some good exercises to improve your vertical jump, like calf raises, heightened jumps... (In playing front row, you would need to now how to block, so check some websites for that) With the rest of the stuff, you should be okay as long as you practice. Try lifting weights, doing push ups, running, plyometrics and core exercises to improve your game. Also, try to adjust your diet to build muscle and strength. Your height means you will be probable be viewed as a libero or digger candidate (I'm short too), but if you have a high enough jump and a good enough spike you can become an attacker. The safe route would be to be good at everything, and excel at one particular (like be a good overall player with amazing digging) so the coaches will notice you. If you like the idea of being a libero, I would recommend considering being that, but its up to what you love. Here are some sites that will help you even further... http://www.wikihow.com/Spike-a-Volleyball http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdBBW7i3f2k http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKAxJC-XEGI http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjqI0QVglrY http://www.ehow.com/how_17308_dig-spike-volleyball.html Good Luck!!