The VolleyPod presented by The Art of Coaching Volleyball
The VolleyPod is all about coaching kids volleyball! Each episode we cover 3 segments that are each designed to help you become a better volleyball coach. First, we focus on a specific volleyball skill, talk about how to teach it, and provide drills and video links for further help with that skill. Then, we present a common coaching scenario and discuss tips for how to (and how not to) handle it. In the third segment we share a resource that has helped us to become a better coach, with the hopes that it can help you too! See you on The...
Using Stats with Juniors, Mid-Season Leadership Tune-up, and VolleyKnowledge
In this episode of The Volley Pod presented by The Art of Coaching Volleyball, hosts Davis and Tod discuss various aspects of volleyball coaching, focusing on the importance of statistics in junior volleyball, effective leadership for team captains, and the nuances of player development.
They explore which statistics are most relevant for assessing team performance and how to use them to improve training and game strategies.
The conversation also highlights the significance of leadership qualities in young athletes and provides practical tips for captains to foster a positive team culture.
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The Leadership Episode Part 2
In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod engage with Ken Murczek, head coach at Emporia State University, in a deep discussion about leadership in sports.
They explore the dynamics of team captains, the importance of communication over accountability, and the role of leadership configurations in fostering a positive team environment.
The conversation emphasizes the need for coaches to adapt their leadership styles based on the unique needs of their teams and the individuals within them.
Key takeaways include the significance of allowing players to lead, the value of communication...
The Leadership Episode Part 1
In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Head Coach of Emporia State University Ken Murczek about leadership in coaching.
They explore various aspects of leadership, including whether leaders are born or made, the importance of allowing leadership to evolve naturally within teams, and the significance of prioritizing leadership development during preseason.
The conversation also delves into the dynamics of shared leadership versus hierarchical leadership, the influence of seniority on leadership roles, and the role of technology in enhancing coaching effectiveness.
This episode is...
Mastering the Defensive Toolbox, Navigating Injuries at Major Tournaments, and High IQ Plays
In this episode of The Volley Pod, the hosts discuss the importance of defensive skills in volleyball, the challenges of managing injuries during tournaments, and strategies for effective communication and player replacement.
They emphasize the need for coaches to prepare their teams for unexpected challenges and to recognize the value of every player, regardless of their role on the team.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from today's episode:
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/controlling-the-dig/ Jim Stone with Morgan Hentz
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/emergency-moves-for-passing-and-defense/ Jen Flynn Oldenburg, Ohio State...
3 Good Drills, Late Season Practice Plan, and Soul Performance Academy
In this episode of The Volley Pod, the hosts discuss recent tournament performances, emphasizing the importance of consistency and skill development.
They explore various drills and game strategies that can enhance team performance, particularly focusing on innovative drills like '21 Savage' and 'Shakespeare Serving'.
The conversation also covers late-season practice planning, highlighting the need for creativity and adaptability in coaching.
Finally, they introduce valuable coaching resources to aid in player development and team success.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from today's episode:
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball...
Strategies for Earning Playing Time, Dealing with Trash Talk, and The Volleyball Coaching Bible
In this episode, the hosts discuss various aspects of youth volleyball coaching, including team performance, strategies for players to earn more playing time, and how to handle trash talk during games.
They emphasize the importance of communication, skill development, and maintaining a positive mindset in competitive environments.
Additionally, they recommend a valuable coaching resource to enhance training and player engagement.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from today's episode:
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/coach-connection-22025/ Amanda Jones, Mental Performance Coach
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/skills-winning-losing/ Kyle Mashima...
Perform Your Best At Three Day Qualifiers, What I Can Take Into Practice After Visiting Two College Programs,and Glue Guys
In this episode of The Volley Pod, coaches Davis and Tod discuss their recent tournament experiences, emphasizing the importance of team management, preparation, and mindset.
They share insights on how to handle expectations, performance, and end-game strategies, while also exploring innovative coaching practices from college programs.
The conversation highlights the significance of focusing on good efforts rather than perfection and encourages coaches to maintain a positive outlook for their teams.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from today's episode:
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/youth-self-toss-hitting-progression/ John Rodriguez from Academy...
A Volleyball Rotations Primer, Big Fish Small Pond Syndrome, and the Newest Concussion Information
In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss the intricacies of volleyball coaching, focusing on the importance of understanding rotations and the dynamics of player roles.
They emphasize the need for coaches to adapt their strategies based on the players' skill levels and the significance of fostering a supportive community among coaches and players.
The conversation also touches on the challenges players face when they perceive themselves as the 'big fish in a small pond' and how to navigate these dynamics for personal and team growth.
...
The Actual Hard Parts of Coaching, Middle of the Season Culture Tune-up Using Quotations, and The Why Is Everything
In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Coach Davis and Coach Tod discuss the often overlooked challenges of coaching volleyball.
They delve into the emotional and psychological aspects of coaching, including the difficulties of giving constructive criticism, maintaining energy and positivity, and managing team dynamics.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of communication, self-care, and a growth mindset for coaches.
They also share practical tips and resources to help coaches navigate these challenges and improve their coaching effectiveness.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from today's episode:
<...B.E.T On It: A Psychological Approach To Coaching Gen-Z and Beyond with David Durand
In this episode of The Volley Pod, Coach Davis and Coach Tod welcome David Durand, a sports performance and psychology leader, to discuss his book 'Bet on It: A Psychological Approach to Coaching Gen Z and Beyond'
The conversation explores the importance of mental performance, nervous system regulation, and the impact of social stress on adolescent athletes.
David shares insights on how coaches can create supportive environments, utilize the BET system (Breath, Eyes, Touch) for athlete regulation, and the significance of connection in coaching.
The episode emphasizes practical strategies for enhancing athlete performance...
B.E.T On It: A Psychological Approach To Coaching Gen-Z and Beyond with David Durand
In this episode of The Volley Pod, Coach Davis and Coach Tod welcome David Durand, a sports performance and psychology leader, to discuss his book 'Bet on It: A Psychological Approach to Coaching Gen Z and Beyond'
The conversation explores the importance of mental performance, nervous system regulation, and the impact of social stress on adolescent athletes.
David shares insights on how coaches can create supportive environments, utilize the BET system (Breath, Eyes, Touch) for athlete regulation, and the significance of connection in coaching.
The episode emphasizes practical strategies for enhancing athlete performance...
The 'Libero Manifesto', Timeout Ideas, and Fit for Thoughts Foundation
In this episode of The Volley Pod, Coach Davis and Coach Tod discuss the essential qualities and skills needed for liberos in volleyball, emphasizing the importance of bravery, communication, and mental toughness.
They explore the 'Libero Manifesto' which outlines ten steps to becoming a superhero libero, including being aggressive in serve receive and honing all skills, and much more.
The conversation also delves into effective timeout strategies for coaches, highlighting the need for preparation and the management of players' emotions during high-pressure situations.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from...
Passing an Actual Floater, 10 Ways To Improve Our Practices, and The Tough Stuff: 7 Hard Truths About Being a Head Coach
In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss the intricacies of passing float serves, emphasizing the importance of mastering this skill for volleyball success.
They explore various techniques, emergency moves, and practice strategies to enhance team performance.
The conversation also touches on the emotional challenges of coaching and the significance of effective communication.
Listeners are provided with actionable insights to improve their volleyball practices and player development.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from today's episode:
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/3-key-aspects-to-passing/ Ray...
The Power of Context in Player Development with Loren Anderson
In this episode, Davis and Tod engage with Loren Anderson, a volleyball coach and expert in ecological dynamics.
They discuss the principles of ecological dynamics in coaching, emphasizing the importance of creating game-like environments for player development.
The conversation covers the coupling of perception and action, the differences between traditional and ecological coaching methods, and practical strategies for implementing ecological dynamics in training.
Loren shares insights on fostering a love for the game among players and the advantages of this coaching approach, including adaptability and decision-making skills.
Check...
Dominate the End Line: Serving for Success, My Team Misses Too Many Serves, and How To Change
In this episode, the hosts discuss the intricacies of volleyball coaching, focusing on serving techniques and strategies.
They emphasize the importance of float serves, the need for players to track their serving stats, and the mental and physical preparation required for effective serving.
The conversation also touches on the social-emotional aspects of serving, linking practice to game scenarios, and creating pressure situations to enhance player performance.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from today's episode:
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/volleyball-serving-tips-where-to-hit-your-fast-floater/ Nabil Mardini
https...
Where Do I Hit It Coach? An Attacking Choices Paradigm, My Team Is Unfocused and Does Not Play Hard, and the 900 Square Feet Newletter
In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss the Triple Crown tournament, emphasizing the emotional investment coaches have in their teams.
They delve into skill development, focusing on attacking choices, shot access, and situational awareness.
The conversation also addresses team culture issues, offering actionable strategies for coaches to improve their team's dynamics and performance.
The episode concludes with resources for further learning and development in volleyball coaching.
*Note: Davis speaks of a past episode with David Durand, but this episode will actually be aired...
Metaphors for Teaching Skills, App Solutions for Coaches, and Talent and the Secret Life of Teams
In this episode ofThe Volley Pod, hosts Davis Ransom and Tod Mattox discuss various coaching techniques and metaphors to enhance volleyball skills.
They explore the importance of using external cues over internal cues for skill acquisition, share creative metaphors for teaching spiking and serving techniques, and emphasize the role of technology in coaching efficiency.
The conversation also highlights valuable resources for coaches and concludes with a reflection on the impact of integrated coaching.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from today's episode:
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/float-serve-fundamentals...
Mastering the Triangle, What To Say During Timeouts, and What Drives Winning
In this episode of The Volley Pod, the hosts discuss the new rule eliminating doubles in high school volleyball and its implications for coaching.
They delve into the triangle concept in volleyball, emphasizing the importance of passing, setting, and hitting as interconnected skills.
The conversation highlights the benefits and challenges of this approach, including the need for game-like randomness and decision-making.
The hosts also share strategies for incentivizing player performance, error correction techniques, and effective timeout strategies for coaches.
They conclude with insights from the 'What Drives Winning' team, exploring themes...
Training in Pairs: Differential Learning Ideas, When Your Team is Losing, and Think Again
In this episode of The Volley Pod, the hosts discuss various aspects of volleyball coaching, focusing on differential learning, effective passing and setting techniques, and strategies for serving.
They also address the challenges coaches face, the importance of building a positive team culture, and provide resources for further development in coaching.
The conversation emphasizes the need for adaptability in training and the significance of mental resilience in competitive environments.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from today's episode:
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/youth-hand-contact-progressions/
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.c...
Teaching Blocking To Young Players, Keeping the Big Things Big, and TedTalks
In this episode of The Volley Pod, the hosts discuss various aspects of youth volleyball coaching, focusing on team progress, decision-making, and the importance of teaching blocking to young players.
They explore the psychological impact of blocking, share effective drills and techniques, and emphasize the need to reinforce team values and systems.
The conversation concludes with valuable resources for coaches to enhance their training methods.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from today's episode:
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/volleyball-blocking-fundamentals-positioning-and-posture/
Joe Sagula
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball...
In The Lab with Sean Thomas: Analogies for Passing
In this episode of The Volley Pod, Tod and Davis are joined by Sean Thomas to discuss various aspects of youth volleyball coaching, focusing on the importance of teaching philosophies, particularly the use of analogies to enhance understanding.
They share personal coaching experiences, explore passing techniques, and emphasize the significance of balance and movement in volleyball.
The conversation also touches on the role of biomechanics and data in coaching, as well as the need to engage young players with fun and relatable analogies.
The...
Ace Prevention for Young Teams, Train to Win or Train to Develop? and Mathew Houlihan
In this episode of The Volley Pod, the hosts discuss essential strategies for coaching youth volleyball, focusing on ace prevention, communication, and movement.
They explore the balance between winning and development, emphasizing the importance of teaching foundational skills while also preparing players for competitive scenarios.
The conversation includes practical tips for coaches and highlights valuable resources for further learning.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball Videos of the Week
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/passing-movement-shuffling-instead-of-reaching/ Ron Kordes
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/improve-your-passing-footwork-by-saying-1-2-3/ Tod...
Training Pursuit, Creative Subbing Plans for Bigger Teams, and Tod's New Book
In this episode of The Volley Pod, the hosts discuss various aspects of youth volleyball coaching, focusing on pursuit training, effective coaching strategies, and the importance of creating a positive team culture.
They emphasize the need for training methods that encourage players to pursue the ball without punitive measures, and they share a list of approaches to improve player engagement and performance.
The conversation also touches on the significance of utilizing video tools for player development and strategies for effective subbing to ensure all players contribute to the team.
Finally, they highlight the...
2024 Highlights
In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Tod and Davis reflect on their favorite moments from the past year of coaching discussions.
They explore various themes such as the importance of creative practice initiations, the power of framing and reframing in coaching, and the significance of building resilience in teams.
The conversation also delves into innovative drills, the challenge-care matrix, and effective feedback techniques.
Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the need for positive coaching frameworks and the importance of finding one's unique coaching style.
Find The...
Innovative Techniques from the AVCA Convention
In this episode, the hosts discuss their experiences at the Final Four and the AVCA National Coaching Convention, highlighting innovative coaching techniques, creative drills, and the importance of player development.
They share insights from various sessions, including blocking strategies, setter-middle connections, and the impact of technology in volleyball coaching.
The conversation also touches on Karch Kiraly's coaching philosophy and the significance of winning the middle in team dynamics.
Check out Balltime at www.balltime.com
Balltime is an AI-powered volleyball platform designed to provide professional-level game breakdowns, video...
Tod's New Book: The Volleyball Coach's Book of Lists
In this conversation, The Volley Pod hosts, Tod and Davis, discuss the release of Tod's new book, The Volleyball Coaches Book of Lists, exploring its inspiration, the collaborative process of gathering insights from various coaches, and the key themes of coaching philosophy, leadership, player development, and effective practice design.
They highlight the importance of mindset, engaging young players, and utilizing resources for coaching improvement.
The discussion also touches on innovative practices and concludes with key takeaways and the book's availability.
You can find the...
Framing and Reframing, When Your Team Just Isn't Getting It, and Zdenek Hanik
In this episode of The Volley Pod, Tod and Davis discuss the essential elements of coaching, focusing on the importance of framing experiences for players, building a strong team culture, and utilizing technology to enhance coaching effectiveness.
They explore various strategies for improving player development and understanding the challenges young athletes face.
The conversation also highlights valuable resources for coaches looking to enhance their skills and knowledge.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos highlighted in today's episode:
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/path-sports-becoming-a-learner/ Karch Kiraly
<...
Yo-Yo Serving Games, Coaches' Self Evaluation, and The Founders' Book
In this episode of The Volley Pod, Tod and Davis reflect on their recent volleyball seasons, discussing the importance of continuous improvement in coaching and player development.
They delve into innovative serving strategies, including the 'yo-yo' effect and the 'two bouncer' serve, emphasizing the need for variety in serving techniques.
The conversation also highlights engaging games for serving skill development, the use of technology like Balltime for video analysis, and the significance of end-of-season evaluations.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos connected to today's podcast are:
https://www...
Russ Rose, John Dunning, and Terry Liskevych and Their New Book, Learn From the Legends
In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis Ransom and Tod Mattox engage with legendary volleyball coaches: Russ Rose, John Dunning, and Terry Liskevych.
They discuss the coaches' new book, Learn From the Legends, which outlines 53 keys to better volleyball coaching.
The conversation covers the origins of the book, the importance of diverse coaching perspectives, effective practice planning, and the significance of player IQ and team culture. The coaches share insights on accountability, curiosity in coaching, and the necessity of lifelong learning for coaches.
At Home Playlist, 7 Mistakes Coaches Make in the Playoffs, and TorqVB
In this episode of The VolleyPod we discuss innovative coaching strategies for youth volleyball, emphasizing the importance of play over work.
We introduce the concept of 'home play' as a way to encourage skill development outside of practice.
The conversation covers various movement techniques, practice strategies, and common coaching mistakes during playoffs, highlighting the need for adaptability and focus on growth.
The episode concludes with insights on innovative training techniques and upcoming resources for coaches.
Skill of the Week
This week's "skill" is an At Home...
In The Lab: Developing Confidence Early
In this episode of The VolleyPod, Sean Thomas joins the pod for a new monthly segment called In The Lab.
This month on In The Lab we discuss the balance between winning and young player development.
The hosts delve into the anxiety young athletes face, particularly during serving, and explore various coaching philosophies.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of reframing mistakes as learning opportunities and highlights the significance of mental health awareness in sports, especially during Movember.
Check out Balltime at www.balltime.com for more and more new features for...
Setting for beginners with just a ball and a wall, Preparing to play a team a second time, and Rob Gray's new book
Setting for beginners with just a ball and a wall, Preparing to play a team a second time, and Rob Gray's new book
Our spookiest episode yet! Coming out October 31st!
In this episode of The VolleyPod, hosts Tod and Davis discuss the excitement surrounding the high school volleyball season as it approaches playoffs, and the upcoming club season.
They delve into coaching techniques, particularly focusing on the fundamentals of setting, including key principles and drills.
Then the conversation covers strategies for preparing to face...
Hall of Fame Coach Peter Ogle on How and Why To Work Hard
In this episode of The VolleyPod, hosts Todd and David engage with legendary coach Peter Ogle, discussing the intricacies of volleyball coaching.
They explore the importance of hard work, mindfulness in practice, overcoming personal roadblocks, and the mental aspects of performance.
Ogle shares insights from his 41 years of coaching experience, emphasizing the joy of improvement and the significance of effective practice strategies.
The conversation also touches on accountability within teams and innovative scrimmage techniques, culminating in a discussion about the role of technology in...
Improving hitting efficiency for hitters who don't have heat, Recover like a champion, and The MarcPro
In this episode of The VolleyPod, the hosts discuss various strategies for improving attacking efficiency in volleyball, particularly for hitters who may not have a powerful arm.
They emphasize the importance of understanding one's identity as a player, making good decisions, and adjusting techniques to enhance performance.
The conversation also covers the significance of recovery in sports, introducing modern recovery techniques and tools that can aid athletes in their training and performance, with a special emphasis on The MarcPro, available at https://marcpro.com/
...
The Parent Pod
The Parent Pod
In this episode of The VolleyPod, the hosts discuss essential topics for parents involved in youth volleyball.
They cover: communication strategies, the importance of schedules, coaching philosophies, and the dynamics between parents, coaches, and players.
The conversation emphasizes the need for clear expectations regarding playing time, skill development, and the overall role of parents in supporting their children in sports.
This episode is vital for coaches and parents who want to start the season off on the right foot!
Coaching in reality, When my team gets down they stay down, and Anti-Fragile
In this episode of The VolleyPod, the hosts discuss various aspects of coaching volleyball, focusing on common mistakes coaches make, the importance of resilience in teams, and how to create a fun and competitive practice environment.
They emphasize the need for flexibility in coaching rules, the significance of competition in practice, and the necessity of connecting resilience to team values.
The conversation also highlights the importance of humor and creativity in coaching, as well as the need for coaches to reflect on their own behaviors and attitudes.
Skill:
...
The 46 Challenge Drill, The Tether Method for out of system play, and The Captain Class
In this episode of The Volley Pod, Tod and Davis start with briefly discussing their experiences in the Coastal Conference, focusing on the competitive nature of the league.
They introduce the '46 Challenge' drill aimed at improving both offensive and defensive skills in volleyball.
The conversation then shifts to the 'Tether Method,' a technique for enhancing out-of-system play, emphasizing the importance of tight sets and player positioning. Finally, they explore leadership principles from the book 'The Captain Class,' highlighting the significance of character in team success.
<...Training responding in your athletes, My team doesn't move their feet and balls are dropping, and The Out of Rotation Podcast
In this conversation, the hosts, Davis Ransom and Tod Mattox, discuss the importance of training athletes to respond effectively in various situations.
They emphasize the need for coaches' words to extend beyond the present moment and for athletes to take action based on the feedback they receive.
The hosts provide strategies for teaching athletes to choose their behaviors consciously and to make informed decisions in challenging situations.
They also discuss the significance of communication and movement in improving performance.
Additionally, they share tips for managing multiple expectations and celebrating improvement.
<...Feedback 101: Finding Your Coaching Voice, Before club tryouts, and How To Change
In this conversation, Todd and David discuss the importance of giving meaningful feedback to players and establishing a coaching voice.
They provide specific tips for individual coaching and catching players doing things right.
They also discuss the process of selecting players for a club team, considering factors such as goals, playing time, parents, and team style.
They emphasize the importance of attitude, learning velocity, and the ability to work well with others.
Skill of the Week:
Finding your coaching voice, what newer coaches can do to...
Bridging the gap between practice and competition performance, My team is wildly inconsistent, and The Jon Gordon Podcast
In this conversation, Tod and Davis discuss the importance of bridging the gap between practice and competition performance in volleyball.
They explore various factors that contribute to inconsistency in teams and offer solutions to address these issues. They emphasize the need for game-like practices, matching the intensity and mode of competition, and using anchor terms to refocus on fundamentals.
They also discuss the role of communication, setting, first contact, and attacking error percentage in achieving consistency. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the benefits of playing together more and the use...
