Tryout Week…

This week is tryout week which brings excitement, energy, and the beginning of a remarkable (see definition of remarkable in my previous post) season. It also brings disappointment for some. Unfortunately, not all players who try out for a team actually make a team. While I don’t think any coach enjoys this process, I have an especially difficult time with it.

I shared a story with the 15′s and 16′s who were trying out last night in Chambersburg…my dad was a high school boys volleyball coach in western PA for over 30 years. In his first year on the job, he cut 2 players. It was so difficult for him to do, he chose to never cut a player again. There were years when there were over 50 kids on the volleyball team at Derry High School! They did not all have a starring role…but they were important to my dad and I am confident in saying that they probably never forgot the opportunity they had to be part of a team, part of something bigger than themselves.

My dad rubbing shoulders with Phil Jackson

As I was sharing with the group last night, we are looking to create opportunities for all young people who walk into our gym. So, for those who make a team, you will have the opportunity to practice, play, and compete. For those who don’t make a team, while there will undoubtedly be disappointment, I offer you the opportunity to still be involved in our club by serving as “Coaching Interns” with our House Leagues that will be forming after the new year. This will give you the chance to continue to learn about the game, stay involved, and perhaps discover a love for teaching and coaching young(er) people. I would be honored to have you as part of our Revolution Family.

As always, you can contact me at mike@revolutionvb.com.