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...
Season Insights from Villanova University Head Coach Josh Steinbach
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 parentsâ hands!
...10 Reasons To Use a Middle Front Setter 4-2 with No Block, When Your Team Passes Great in Practice But Not Games, and VolleyMovement with Daniel Maciel
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...
Tips To Teach Everyone How To Set, 10 Benefits To Attending a Coaching Clinic, and The Volleyball Journey
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...
Clarity Precedes Accountability, Beating Teams That Are Bigger, Stronger, and Faster, and How Minds Change
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.
<...What Coaches Get Wrong About Armswing, Coaching for End of the Season Elimination Matches, and Volleyball Explained
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...
10 Questions with Catalyst Volleyball Club Director Tobias Herrera IV (Part 2)
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...
10 Questions with Catalyst Volleyball Club Director Tobias Herrera IV (Part 1)
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...
Constraints Led Approach Tips, Conflict Coaching Gasoline, and Volleyball Canada
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 âfuelâ 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...
Teaching Individual Defense, Principles To Start he Season With, and The Constraints Collective
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-Game Adjustments That Help, Mid-season Role Identification Meetings, and A Program with Purpose
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...
Hit Hard! When Your Team Can't Score and NFHS Learning Center
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...
Team Defensive Concepts That Work, When Coaching the Very Young, and
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...
Mid-season Laundry List of Improvements, When You Play On a "Bad" School Team, and the Flow Experience
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...
Playing Time for Huge Teams with Joe Trinsey Part 2
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...
10 Variations of Aceball: Joe Trinsey Part 1
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...
Lead With Values Not Skills, Planning for Lineup Surprises, and The Curious Polymath
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...
Important Vision Ideas for Serve Receive, Rethinking the Parent Meeting, and VolleyCoachShow Podcast
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 Todayâs Episode
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/developing-passing-vision/Â Â Â Julianne Faucette
htt...
The Advanced Blocking Episode with David Proffitt
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
â â â https://www.amazon.com/VOLLEYBALL-COACHS-BOOK-LISTS-Inspiration/dp/B0DP5JFQC8/ref=sr_1_28?crid=2KJH98WQ3943...
Teach Passing Better, Making Cuts, and Tom Black's new Substack
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.
...
Tryout Intangibles List, How To Be an Awesome Court Coach at Tryouts, and VolleyballToolbox.net
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.
Evaluating how players deal with adversity is crucial.Communication is key in volleyball.Players should be willing to play multiple positions.Coaches should bring energy to the court.It's important to celebrate others' successes.Players should be the first in line for new activities.Coaches need to call...Dan Meske on Running the Offense and Switching To His New Role As Head Coach at Louisville University
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."
<...National Championship Journey, Ten Camp Drill Formats, and SkillShark
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...
National Championship Journey and Highlights, 10 Clinic Drill Formats, and SkillShark
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...
Mastering Mental Performance in Volleyball with Amanda Jones
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...
Update Your Coaching Glossary with These Key Words, Talented Players is a Culture Cancer, and
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...
The Volleyball Journey: A Handy Guidebook for Players and Parents by The Volley Pod's Tod Mattox
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.
...
Improve Your Private Lesson Coaching, Framing Your End of Season Tournament, and Good, Bad, I'm the Guy with the Blog
In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss various aspects of volleyball coaching, focusing on enhancing private lessons, effective techniques, and strategies for player improvement.
They emphasize the importance of adapting lessons to be more game-like, the value of group lessons, and the significance of setting clear goals for the end of the season.
Additionally, they explore the necessity of having an adversity plan and team rituals to foster a positive and competitive environment for your end of season tournaments
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos...
Lessons from Club Nationals, Avoiding Coach Burnout, and Mark Lebedew is At Home On The Court
In this episode of The Volley Pod we get our first look at some content from Tod's upcoming book and cover lessons that coach Mark Massey observed during his time at Club Nationals.
Then we cover important lessons from experience about how to avoid coach burnout, which is rampant at this time of the season.
Finally, we share a cool coaching resource that challenges a lot of your typical concepts of coaching, Mark Lebedew's At Home On The Court.
The Art of Coaching Volleyball videos from today's episode:
<...
Undersized Hitters Tips with 18 Open Finalist Juliette D'Eliseo, The Big Game, and Four Athletes4
In this conversation, we explore the dynamics of being an undersized outside hitter in volleyball.
Juliette D'Eliseo, 2025 18 Open National Finalist, shares her experiences and insights on how to effectively utilize the block, the importance of smart hitting strategies, and the transition from being a libero to an outside hitter.
The discussion also delves into the mental aspects of playing in big games, the significance of team dynamics, and the mindset required to succeed as an undersized player.
Juliette emphasizes the need for resilience, adaptability, and a focus on the present moment to thrive...
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.
...
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/Â Â Â Jim Stone with Morgan Hentz
https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/emergency-moves-for-passing-and-defense/Â Â 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...
