by Katie Ryan

Created on: August 01, 2009   Last Updated: August 04, 2009

With school approaching and volleyball season starting up in the fall, there are a number of things young players should have in mind beforehand when it comes to making the team. Who makes the cut and who ends up on the sidelines? It all comes down to these three factors that make some stand out above the rest:

PRACTICE

There's a key difference between the girls who've practiced over the summer and those who haven't. The best way to prepare for the competitive season is to have some extra experience under your belt. Over the long vacation, grab a couple friends for a relaxed game at the beach. The sand will help strengthen your muscles and improve your stamina, making the court seem like a breeze.

SERVES

Perfecting your serve is the golden ticket to making any team. Even if you're skilled at making passes or spiking the ball for those crowd-pleasing scores, the most points are lost to incomplete serves. Nothing separates the JV from the varsity like having a good overhand serve. It's a skill often required of all varsity players, but whether it's overhand or underhand, serves are something everyone will have to do when it comes to be their turn in rotation.

COMMITMENT

What's your best asset when it comes to being a team player? You've got it: commitment. Nothing compares when it comes to being fully committed to your team. Be prepared to work overtime during late-night practice sessions, travel long distances for big games, and hold the phone on your social life when time gets tight. That's the expectation for top-notch competitors, but if you're also just looking to have a good time and improve your game, being reliable and supportive for your team are the best attributes a player can have.

All in all, playing school sports should be fun process. If you don't make the team, don't be discouraged. Keep practicing, join a club, and most importantly, have fun!

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