The VolleyPod presented by The Art of Coaching Volleyball

Support The Volley Pod by engaging with us on Patreon at:

https://www.patreon.com/cw/thevolleypod

Resource of the Week

Oscar “Digger” Graybill is an incredible volleyball coach and the Director and Founder of Socratic Seminars International, an organization that is dedicated to providing high quality, sustainable professional development in Socratic Seminars, Student Engagement, and Critical Thinking.

https://www.socraticseminars.com/ 

Check out our host Tod Mattox's books! Available on Amazon! Get them in your parents’ hands!

The Volleyball Journey: A Handy...

Support The Volley Pod by engaging with us on Patreon at:

https://www.patreon.com/cw/thevolleypod

Resource of the Week

Oscar “Digger” Graybill is an incredible volleyball coach and the Director and Founder of Socratic Seminars International, an organization that is dedicated to providing high quality, sustainable professional development in Socratic Seminars, Student Engagement, and Critical Thinking.

https://www.socraticseminars.com/ 

Check out our host Tod Mattox's books! Available on Amazon! Get them in your parents’ hands!

The Volleyball Journey: A Handy...

Support The Volley Pod by engaging with us on Patreon at:

https://www.patreon.com/cw/thevolleypod

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Tod and Davis discuss the recent Triple Crown volleyball tournament, emphasizing its unique structure that allows for high-stakes matches to shine.

They delve into innovative warm-up techniques that enhance player readiness and skill development, moving away from traditional methods.

The conversation shifts to creative coaching strategies and unique offensive tactics that can give teams an edge.

They also explore serving techniques...

Support The Volley Pod by engaging with us on Patreon at:

https://www.patreon.com/cw/thevolleypod

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Videos of the Week

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/positive-self-talk/ Amanda Jones

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/step-outside-of-your-comfort-zone/ Christa Dietzen

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/flush-and-park-mistakes-with-a-mistake-ritual/ Positive Coaching Alliance

Resource of the Week

https://coachchijo.com/ Coach Chijo Takeda is a longtime juniors coach in West Linn, Oregon and notable internet coaching personality. Known f...

Support The Volley Pod by engaging with us on Patreon at:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/volley-pod-149467525?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

Today on the podcast we are joined by Emily Schilling, Director of Strength & Conditioning, Olympic Sports for University of Illinois Athletics, who shares her wealth of wisdom about integrating strength and conditioning into youth club volleyball athletes' routines in a healthy way!

Check out our host Tod Mattox's books! Available on Amazon! Get them in...

Support The Volley Pod by engaging with us on Patreon at:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/volley-pod-149467525?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Tod and Davis reflect on their journey with the podcast, discuss community engagement through Patreon, and delve into various volleyball coaching techniques.

They emphasize the importance of skill development, particularly through innovative drills and games that enhance ball control and decision-making.

The conversation also highlights the significance of...

Support The Volley Pod by engaging with us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/posts/volley-pod-149467525?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Tod and Davis reflect on their journey with the podcast, discuss community engagement through Patreon, and delve into various volleyball coaching techniques.

They emphasize the importance of skill development, particularly through innovative drills and games that enhance ball control and decision-making.

The conversation also highlights the significance of engaging training methods that captivate players...

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Tod and Davis discuss various aspects of volleyball coaching, focusing on youth training, particularly for 10-year-olds.

They share insights from recent tournaments, emphasizing the importance of serving, setter-middle connections, and effective defensive strategies.

The conversation also covers practical coaching techniques, including approach timing, jump setting, and creating memorable moments for players.

The hosts provide actionable tips for coaches to enhance their training sessions and improve player performance.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Videos of the Week 

⁠https://www.the...

This week on The Volley Pod, hosts Tod and Davis are joined by Brian Swenty, a top volleyball coach in Germany where he works for the Department of Defense.

Swenty coaches a variety of levels from men's club all the way to youth girls, and he joins The Volley Pod to share his insights into how things operate quite differently in Europe for youth volleyball.

Check out our host Tod Mattox's books! Available on Amazon! Get them in your parents’ hands!

The Volleyball Journey: A Handy Guide Book for Players an...

In this conversation, Davis Ransom and Todd Maddox delve into the intricacies of serve receive in volleyball, sharing insights from their extensive coaching experience.

They discuss the importance of server cues, effective passing techniques, and the significance of positioning and angles. The duo emphasizes the need for adaptability in passing, the benefits of overhand passing, and the necessity of training with distractions.

They also highlight the importance of developing a secondary move to enhance players' responses to unexpected serves. The conversation wraps up with practical tips for coaches and resources for further learning.

<...

In this episode of The Volley Pod, the hosts discuss various aspects of coaching volleyball, focusing on redefining fun for players, utilizing technology in coaching, and addressing challenges such as server dominance in matches.

They emphasize the importance of creating a positive environment, fostering connections among players, and adapting coaching strategies to enhance player development.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Videos of the Week 

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/4-keys-to-making-technical-volleyball-training-fun-for-young-athletes/ - Alessandro Licata

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/how-to-add-subtle-fun-to-practice/ - Deborah Newkirk

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/norways-winning-formula/ - T...

Check out The Volley Pod on Instagram at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/aoc.thevolleypod/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email us at ⁠⁠⁠thevolleypod@gmail.com

In this episode of The Volley Pod, the hosts celebrate the success of a national champion team and discuss the importance of building rapport with players.

They share coaching strategies to improve communication and player development, emphasizing the significance of celebrating wins and using technology in coaching.

The conversation also touches on innovative practices for injured players and the need to focus on individuality in coaching methods.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Vide...

Thank you to our guest Dr. Jenny Johnson, Director of Education Services at USA Volleyball!

Check out our host Tod Mattox's books! Available on Amazon! Get them in your parents’ hands!

The Volleyball Journey: A Handy Guide Book for Players and Parents by Tod Mattox

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/VOLLEYBALL-COACHS-BOOK-LISTS-Inspiration/dp/B0DP5JFQC8/ref=sr_1_28?crid=2KJH98WQ39435&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.oxg1qQgJwtLqoZGdSEuK4bNHKYYRR4-cAA-9V23RMX-nL-x0EXVHeZsvloPz9dC3i0ivVmMRxTRCiVuqIQX0wJdDCvRlOzNvTkCHt5OPRsFejjaGI84DYqOtMvgeii8-Vjdlzr_ho0p8UKsZTf0TrCB1BTVR-Jbii8lHxy2StdIfdMIjldHHMF9eWFTQMVg8Eki4iJ_W4jUWfaYrTAPPcdyudyCQI7n_XZgnecS2Jdzb1CHwAO9JCs...

Tod and Davis are at the 2025 American Volleyball Coaches Convention in Kansas City, Missouri!

Our hosts meet the head women's volleyball for Southern Methodist University Sam Erger and talk about a few cool ideas she used this season to win more points.

Next, Davis and Tod talk volleyball with Leonard Armato, the former owner of the AVP. He discusses the future of volleyball and how he is helping to shape our bright future.

Then The Volley Pod coaches greet Tony Ker from Hudl to discuss where the platform is headed and how things...

In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of volleyball coaching with Josh Steinbach, who reflects on his recent successful season at Villanova.

The discussion covers highlights and lowlights of the season, coaching philosophies, innovative techniques, the use of technology in training, and the importance of player adaptability.

Josh shares insights on teaching skills, scouting strategies, and the evolving nature of volleyball play, while also emphasizing the significance of personal well-being for coaches.

Check out our host Tod Mattox's books! Available on Amazon! Get them in your parents’ hands!

The conversation emphasizes the importance of personal development in coaching, highlighting how an individual coach's improvement can lead to overall team enhancement.

It discusses the ripple effect that occurs when a coach becomes better, positively impacting all team members.

Anything you do along the lines of coaching improves your team.

The fastest way to improve your team is for you to get better.

When you get better, everybody gets better.

Personal development in coaching is crucial for team success.

A coach's improvement has a ripple effect on...

The conversation emphasizes the importance of personal development in coaching, highlighting how an individual coach's improvement can lead to overall team enhancement.

It discusses the ripple effect that occurs when a coach becomes better, positively impacting all team members.

Anything you do along the lines of coaching improves your team.

The fastest way to improve your team is for you to get better.

When you get better, everybody gets better.

Personal development in coaching is crucial for team success.

A coach's improvement has a ripple effect on...

In this conversation, Tod Mattox and Davis Ransom emphasize the importance of clarity in accountability, defining player roles, and understanding effort metrics.

They explore strategies for adapting to physical opponents, developing diverse scoring methods, and maintaining ball control.

The discussion also highlights the significance of tactical awareness and unconventional play to gain an edge in matches.

Clarity is essential before holding players accountable.

Defining team values helps in establishing clarity.

Players must understand their roles clearly.

Effort metrics should be well-defined and communicated.

In this episode, Tod and Davis discuss the upcoming virtual clinic for volleyball coaches, emphasizing the importance of arm swing as a fundamental skill in volleyball. They explore various coaching techniques to enhance hitting, the significance of preparing for end-of-season matches, and innovative practice strategies to keep players engaged. The conversation also touches on the use of technology in training and concludes with final thoughts and resources for coaches.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Videos of the Week

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/attacking-with-terry-liskevych-and-john-dunning-2/ John Dunning

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/john-dunning-how-to-properly-hit...

In this episode of The Volley Pod, Tod and Davis are joined by Tobias Herrera, the Director of Catalyst Volleyball Club in Houston Texas. He joins the pod to discuss key questions that coaches want to know!

This week the trio discuss how to incorporate music in practice, how to handle missed practices without compromising the team results, the differences between starting the season with a less experience team, and more questions to get you thinking!

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Videos of the Week

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/guide-to-leadership-introduction...

In this episode, the hosts discuss various aspects of volleyball coaching, including reflections on recent matches, the introduction of a new segment with Tobias Herrera from Club Catalyst Volleyball, and the importance of balancing culture and drills in practice.

They delve into mental toughness, the first week of practice for different teams, managing parent expectations, and effective drills for young players.

The conversation emphasizes the integration of conditioning into practice and the significance of nurturing positive relationships with parents.

Thank you to our guest Tobias Herrera IV!

You...

In this episode of The Volley Pod, Tod and Davis talk about ideas for how coaches can integrate more of a constraints led approach in their gyms. These ideas are ready to be applied today! Tod then explains Conflict Coaching fuel, the idea that coaches can avoid these types of “fuel” for conflicts on their teams. Then they share excellent resources from The Art of Coaching Volleyball and Volleyball Canada.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Videos of the Week

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/drills-that-reward-error-control/ Ally Dahl

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/teac...

In this episode, the hosts of The Volley Pod discuss various aspects of volleyball coaching, focusing on defensive strategies, tactical awareness, and principles for starting the season. They share insights on improving individual defense, the importance of readiness and posture, and how to effectively teach players to dig and pursue the ball. The conversation also touches on the significance of establishing foundational principles for the season and highlights useful coaching resources.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Videos of the Week

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/vision-impacting-defense/ Jim Stone

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball...

In this episode of The Volley Pod, Tod and Davis discuss easy in-game adjustments that can help your teams get out of a jam.

They then go over a great way to handle midseason role identification meetings with your team, so that everyone feels good about it.

Then they recommend videos from The Art of Coaching Volleyball that teach coaches how to run modified offensive systems, and ultimately share a book about program building by Johan Dulfer.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Videos of the Week

https://www...

In this episode of The Volley Pod, Tod and Davis discuss various techniques and strategies for improving hitting power in volleyball.

They explore the importance of observing players, choosing the right attackers, and training effectively for live play.

The conversation also delves into innovative scoring strategies for teams struggling to score points, emphasizing the need for tactical awareness and aggression.

Additionally, they share valuable resources for coaches looking to enhance their training methods.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Resources of the Week

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com...

In this episode, Tod and Davis discuss various strategies and concepts for coaching volleyball, focusing on defensive systems, tactical approaches, and the importance of creating a positive environment for young players. They emphasize the significance of adapting to different game situations and the role of coaches in shaping players' experiences both on and off the court.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Resources of the Week

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/defensive-systems/ Terry Liskevych - Defensive Systems

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/base-position-on-defense/ Jim Stone - Base Position

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball...

In this episode, the hosts discuss various aspects of coaching volleyball, focusing on skills, strategies, and the dynamics of playing on a high school team. They explore the importance of practice techniques, setting and serving strategies, and the challenges faced by players on less competitive teams. The conversation emphasizes personal growth, teamwork, and the value of maintaining a positive attitude despite challenges.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Resources of the Week

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/checklists-a-coachs-best-friend/ Jim Stone

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/why-you-should-checklist-every-serve/ Don Patterson

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball...

Joe Trinsey continues with part two of his discussion with The Volley Pod but this time we are talking about solutions for playing time with huge teams.

Joe shares ideas that coaches can use to maximize their team's abilities and keep everyone happy!

Our Resource of the Week is Joe Trinsey's awesome Substack which you can find here:

https://smartervolley.substack.com/

Check out Tod Mattox's books!

Available on Amazon!

The Volleyball Journey: A Handy Guide Book for...

volleyball, coaching, ace ball, youth sports, player development, team strategies, volleyball drills, coaching tips, sports education, volleyball training

"It's a great game for skill development."

"Miss serves don't count."

Chapters

01:12 Understanding Ace Ball: The Game Mechanics

04:03 Variations of Ace Ball: Engaging Drills for All Levels

10:01 Incentivizing Performance: Adjusting the Game Rules

16:29 Counting Aces: Defining Success in Ace Ball

21:57 Final Thoughts on Ace Ball and Its Impact

25:33 Maximizing Efficiency with Technology

26:12 Lineup Strategies for...

In this episode of The Volley Pod, the hosts discuss the recent changes in high school volleyball rules, particularly the elimination of double contacts on the second touch.

They explore the implications of these changes on gameplay and coaching strategies.

The conversation shifts to the importance of teaching soft skills alongside hard skills in volleyball, emphasizing values like resilience and focus.

The hosts also delve into decision-making processes for players, especially in high-pressure situations, and the need for adaptability in lineups.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Videos from...

In this conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of coaching volleyball, focusing on the importance of teaching vision, enhancing communication, and engaging parents in the volleyball experience.

They explore strategies for player development, deliberate practice, and the significance of creating a joyful environment for both players and parents.

The conversation also touches on rethinking parent meetings to foster connections and improve team dynamics, along with sharing valuable resources for coaches.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball Videos from Today’s Episode

https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/developing-passing-vision/   Julianne Faucette

htt...

Resource of the Week

https://www.youtube.com/@TechnicalVolley Technical Volleyball Videos

Full International level matches cut and fit into very short time frames

Check out Tod Mattox's books!

Available on Amazon!

The Volleyball Journey: A Handy Guide Book for Players and Parents by Tod Mattox

⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/VOLLEYBALL-COACHS-BOOK-LISTS-Inspiration/dp/B0DP5JFQC8/ref=sr_1_28?crid=2KJH98WQ3943...

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss effective coaching strategies for teaching volleyball, particularly focusing on passing techniques and player development.

They emphasize the importance of movement patterns, platform awareness, and the need for flexibility in training.

The conversation also covers the sensitive topic of making cuts in teams, highlighting the need for empathy and clarity in the process.

Teach movement patterns to enhance player skills.

Focus on platform awareness for better passing.

Modify techniques based on ball movement.

...

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss various aspects of coaching tryouts. They share tips for evaluating players, the importance of communication, and strategies for effective court coaching. The conversation also highlights resources available for coaches to enhance their skills and knowledge in the sport.

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod and guest Dan Meske discuss the transition to head coach, the importance of setter training, and the dynamics of coaching staff.

Coach Meske shares insights on effective feedback for setters, the significance of tempo and location in setting, and the role of technology in training.

They also explore the hiring process, the importance of creating a fun training environment, and tips for winning volleyball games.

"Volleyball is supposed to be fun."

"I love chatting about volleyball."

In this episode of The Volley Pod, Tod and Davis discuss their recent success at USAV Nationals, sharing insights on coaching strategies, skill development, and team culture.

They explore effective drills, game strategies, and the importance of building a supportive team environment.

The conversation also highlights lessons learned from the championship experience and future goals for continuous improvement in coaching.

Takeaways

The journey to nationals was filled with tough matches and perseverance.

Coaching requires a calm demeanor, even in high-pressure situations.

Summer is an...

In this episode of The Volley Pod, Tod and Davis discuss their recent success at USAV Nationals, sharing insights on coaching strategies, skill development, and team culture.

They explore effective drills, game strategies, and the importance of building a supportive team environment.

The conversation also highlights lessons learned from the championship experience and future goals for continuous improvement in coaching.

Takeaways

The journey to nationals was filled with tough matches and perseverance.

Coaching requires a calm demeanor, even in high-pressure situations.

Summer is an...

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod are joined by Amanda Jones to discuss Mastering Mental Performance.

Join us on The Volley Pod as we dive into the world of mental sports performance with Amanda Jones, a certified mental performance consultant. Discover the tools and techniques that can help athletes and coaches enhance their mental game, from visualization to creating a supportive team environment.

The importance of integrating mental skills with physical training. How vision casting can motivate athletes during off-season. Techniques for building psychological safety within teams. The role of...

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss the conclusion of the club volleyball season and the transition into high school volleyball.

They delve into the importance of language in coaching, presenting a glossary of terms that can enhance player learning and team dynamics.

The conversation shifts to the challenges of managing talented players who may disrupt team culture, offering strategies for coaches to address these issues effectively while maintaining a positive environment.

The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from today's episode:

https://www...

This conversation explores various aspects of volleyball coaching, focusing on mental performance strategies, parental guidance, effective communication between players and coaches, and the importance of reading the game.

The discussion also highlights creative ways to engage young players, the benefits of beach volleyball, and the significance of scouting opponents.

Additionally, it emphasizes the value of video analysis for self-improvement and categorizing cues for effective defense.

Takeaways

The coaching book includes valuable insights for players and parents.

Mental performance strategies can enhance a player's game.

...