Changing the Game: What Families Need to Know About Club Volleyball Tryouts
At Northern Lights Athletic Club, we are on a mission to reshape the way Club Volleyball tryouts are experienced. Our vision is simple: bring multiple clubs and athletes together in one place to create a more transparent, efficient, and cost-effective tryout environment. Ideally, Volleyball Alberta, would take our idea and expand into a mass tryout process. Until then, it’s important for families to understand how the current tryout landscape works, and how to navigate it with confidence. Whether you're new to Club Volleyball or a returning athlete, here are a few key insights every family should know:
There Are No Boundaries
Unlike community sports like soccer, hockey, or basketball, Club Volleyball doesn’t operate within geographic boundaries. That means your athlete can try out for any club, regardless of where you live. This opens up a world of opportunity, but also means families need to be proactive in researching and reaching out to clubs that align with their goals. Be prepared to be at the court 2-3 times a week, so keep that in mind when expanding your list of clubs.
Cast a Wide Net
One of the biggest mistakes families make is focusing on just one or two clubs. While it’s natural to have preferences, putting all your eggs in one basket is risky. Clubs often fill rosters quickly, and spots can disappear within minutes of a tryout starting. The best strategy? Get exposure to as many teams as possible. Attend multiple ID camps, open gyms, and tryouts to increase your chances of finding the right fit. There is a small window for tryouts and few clubs will collaborate with their tryout schedules. By planning ahead and scheduling tryouts, your structure will keep tryouts calm as you move from team to team.
Follow Clubs on Social Media
In today’s digital world, most clubs use social media as their primary communication tool. That’s where they’ll post about upcoming ID Camps, Open Gyms, and Tryouts. Following clubs on Instagram, Facebook, and constantly checking their websites ensures you stay in the loop and don’t miss out on key opportunities.
Treat Every Event Like a Tryout
ID Camps and Open Gyms are unofficial tryouts. They are often where first impressions are made. Coaches use these events to evaluate athletes before formal tryouts even begin. In fact, Letters of Intent (LOIs), which offer a spot on the team, have been all handed out within the first tryout. That means athletes need to show up ready to compete from the moment they walk in the gym.
Choose the Coach, Not Just the Club
Many clubs market themselves as “elite,” and some truly are. But the most important factor in your athlete’s development isn’t the club’s reputation, it is the coach. A great coach can elevate your athlete’s skills, confidence, and love for the game. Before committing to a team, take time to research the coach’s background, coaching style, and track record (not just championships). Ask questions. Attend sessions. Make sure it’s a good fit.
Final Thoughts
The Club Volleyball tryout process can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right information and a proactive approach, families can navigate the system with clarity and confidence. At Northern Lights Athletic Club, we’re committed to making that journey easier by creating a more collaborative and transparent tryout experience through out Club Volleyball Showcase.
