Parent Information

Things to know before try-outs

Thinking about club volleyball? You’re in the right place. Pantera has experienced coaches ready to provide good training and skills. Catch up with our history and philosophies by reading our club profile page.

Try-outs usually happen in the fall after school season concludes. We do assess a try-out fee to cover JVA registration, gym space, and equipment needs that aren’t covered by player dues. For scheduling information, visit our tryout page.

Team size varies between 8-12 players per team. Pantera is a player development club which means we make every effort to assign players to the team where they will thrive and improve their skills. Coaching assignments can be fluid during the first weeks, because we shape our teams based on the number of players trying out, the developmental needs at each position and level, and coach experience.

We believe in empowering our players to be accountable for their own results. This means tryouts are focused on assessing not only volleyball skills, but also enthusiasm, work ethic, and confidence. For many players, volleyball try-outs may be their first time competing for a spot against other players. For others, it could be their first time performing in a setting where their parents are not watching. Try-outs are an opportunity to foster resilience and courage. Being nervous can actually help improve focus! Embrace the jitters and come ready to do your best. We are excited to meet you!

Once you’ve made the team

You made a team! Congratulations! Now what?

Some teams host a preseason meeting to share coaching philosophies and player expectations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we weren’t able to gather in the same way as we normally do. So, this section highlights who we are, and why we coach the way we do.

Club volleyball can be different than other sports experiences. Most players are in middle school or high school, and are learning to exercise some independence. With very few exceptions, most communication from your coach will take place directly with the players. This includes conversations about a player’s role on the team, questions about playing time, and advice on how to improve. This isn’t to say we don’t include the parents on team activities, scheduling, or travel - of course we do! However, the skills to talk to adults about hard topics, to listen and learn without a parent’s guidance, and take feedback or criticism to heart, are exactly what we want to develop.

The most important takeaway is that every player is different. Every player has something new to learn. The time to refine those skills, and therefore earn playing time during tournaments, is at practice. If your player isn’t sure what she can do to earn more playing time, we welcome the opportunity to discuss that — with the player directly. Please give us the chance to teach your daughter self-advocacy skills and personal resilience. The lessons she learns while playing sports will last her lifetime.

Gear

Pantera is not sponsored by any athletics company. As such, we try to keep our uniform costs reasonable while providing gear that will last for the duration of the season. This includes 2 jerseys, 1 t-shirts, a hoodie and backpack.

Gear is usually ordered in November ahead of the holiday season. Uniforms are typically distributed just ahead of our first tournaments in January. This means, if you are a first-year player, you need to plan to bring your own shoes, spandex, and kneepads for fall practice.

Spandex

We require spandex to be at least 2” length inseams in black or navy. Some well known spandex brands are Mizuno, Under Armor, Asics, and Adidas. We recommend steering away from other brands that may not have fabric thickness that is suitable for the sport.

Why spandex, anyway? In volleyball, we dive on the floor. A lot. Leggings can be ripped with floor burns, and running shorts may not stay in place. After tryouts, spandex are required for practice as well as tournaments.

Shoes

Volleyball shoes are helpful to ensure traction on the court and good flexibility for jumping and lateral movement. Whatever shoe you choose, we recommend wearing them only when you’re in the gym. This prevents wear and tear from outside elements so you’ll be moving well on the court. Asics, Mizuno, Nike, Under Armor are all great choices for volleyball shoes, but they aren’t required.

Kneepads and Arm Sleeves

Many first or second year players are still learning to dive on the floor safely. For this reason, we require kneepads for all of our players. Some players also use arm sleeves to protect their forearms from impact when passing the ball. If you’re younger than 14 and planning to play in the back row, arm sleeves might be a good choice for you. Sporting goods stores carry kneepads and arm sleeves in a variety of sizes.

Other equipment

We’ll design Pantera gear for parents to order. We provide balls and carts for team use during practice and tournaments, so you won’t need your own. Older players who play in the front row may wish to invest in Active Ankles to protect from any ankle injuries, but these are not required. Ask your coach if you think you need additional protective equipment depending on your position.