How long does the JO season last?

Tryouts are in August or September and there will be limited practices in November and December (generally after the high school season ends).  The primary season is from January to May unless the team qualifies for nationals; this tournament is usually in the last week of June or the first week of July.

How are the age groups determined?

The cutoff for each age group is September 1st, 2009 -- whatever age they are at this date, this is the group they must play with.  For example, if an athlete turns 16 on August 30th, 2009 (yes, even after the season is over), then they must play on a 16s team.

My daughter is exceptionally gifted; can she play up to a higher age level?

Moving a younger athlete to a higher age group is solely up to the discretion of the coaches.  We believe that in order for an athlete to move up, she must be better that a majority of the athletes in the upper age group. If an athlete wants to move up, she must try out for both age groups (her regular age group and the one she wants to move up to).  The $40 fee covers both tryouts.

What can I expect at tryouts?

Tryouts will consist of several adults (coaches and volunteers) who will run the athletes through various drills to determine skill level and ability.  Parents/guardians will not be allowed inside the tryout facility.  The cost is $40.

Each coach is looking for something different, but having a good attitude (being supportive of others, calling balls, generally positive, is "coachable") is always helpful.  The amount of volleyball experience can help; however, an athlete who isn't as experienced but shows natural athletic ability can also make great contributions to a team.

What should I bring to tryouts?

Your tryout form, the Internet release form (if interested), your $40 entry fee (cash or check made out to vbvba), and anything extra you require for a 2 hour workout (i.e. water bottle, pads, etc).

What happens after I am invited to join a team?

We will have a club meeting about 2- 3 weeks after tryouts.  At this time, you and your parents will be asked to sign a commitment form outlining club policies and estimated costs. The $Membership deposit (TBD) will be due at this time.

What about athletes who play other sports during the season -- can they still participate in juniors volleyball?

This really depends on what the goals of the athlete are.  If they want to play on a National team and try out for 14s or above, then the answer is no; to be competitive, the players on the National (Gold) teams really need to focus on Volleyball and should make this their sole sport during the season.  This means no missed practices or matches due to other sports.  We recommend that players who play other spring sports (other than middle school volleyball) play on a Regional team.

How often do we practice?

We hope to practice three times a week; two times during the work week and once on Sunday.  This may change during the Virginia Beach's Middle School volleyball season for those age groups that are affected; we will try schedule around Middle School practice times.

Where is VBVBA's facility?

Currently, there is no home gym for VBVBA.  We practice in the local Middle and High school gyms.  We are in negotiations for a permanent facility located in Virginia Beach or very near its environs.

Once I commit to VBVBA, am I locked in?

No, technically you are not locked into any team (or club) until you play in the first tournament.  However, dropping from the team after you sign your commitment will forfeit your deposit.

Can I pay my Membership Dues now?

Of course!  There is no penalty for paying any of the costs ahead of time.

What if I don't pay my balance on time?

We realize Juniors volleyball can be expensive; that is why we are staggering payments.  If you are having issues paying your balance on time, please let us know and we can work out a different payment schedule.  However, those who make no effort to pay their balance will be removed from the roster and not allowed to play until payment is received.

Why can't I get an exact price on how much travel will cost?

Rather than determine a preset cost, we decided to choose the teams and let the coaches and parents determine how far they want to take the team.  The cost will vary widely depending on how many tournaments (and where they are located) the team decides to compete in (and if they make Nationals).  Once your athlete is selected for a team,  we'll give you a printed "total estimated travel cost".  We also plan to have fundraisers to offset your expenses, if desired.

Updated 7/18/2008