How to Start a Volleyball Club Team: 10 Essential Tips

Starting a volleyball club team can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. Whether you're a former player, coach, or a passionate parent looking to create more opportunities for young athletes, volleyball is a fun, highly-active sport for any age. However, while the idea may be simple, turning that vision into reality involves much planning and organization.

If you're wondering exactly how to start a volleyball club or how to start a club volleyball team, this guide is for you. Here are 10 essential tips to help you launch a successful volleyball club from the ground up.

1 - Define Your Club’s Purpose and Goals

What kind of volleyball experience are you offering? What’s your club’s mission? Are you focused on elite competition, player skill development, community involvement, or a mix?

If establishing a junior volleyball program, consider whether you'll start with one age group or expand to multiple divisions over time.

Identifying your goals will help shape your team structure, coaching, and scheduling decisions.

2 - Understand the Governing Bodies

In the U.S., volleyball clubs typically operate under organizations like USA Volleyball (USAV), AAU, or JVA. These groups provide guidelines, tournaments, insurance, and certification. Research your regional governing body and register your club accordingly.

3 - Create a Club Name and Branding

Choose a club name that reflects your vision and stands out. Create a logo and color scheme for uniforms, marketing materials, and social media. When your volleyball club’s brand is strong, it makes your club look professional and helps attract players.

4 - Build a Budget and Set Player Fees

List all expected expenses using a rough preliminary budget. These may include gym rentals, uniforms, equipment, tournament fees, coach stipends, insurance, admin and club operation costs.

Understanding your club’s finances from day one is crucial. Consider creating separate budget categories for each team within your junior club program.

Then, determine fair membership fees that cover those costs. Be transparent with families and offer payment plans if possible.

5 - Secure Gym Space for Practice and Tryouts

Finding affordable and consistent practice space can be one of your biggest challenges. Contact local schools, churches, rec centers, or private sports facilities early to secure practice slots and host tryouts for your new volleyball club.

Building relationships within your local volleyball community can often lead to shared volleyball court time or recommendations for available local recreational centers that other existing clubs have used successfully. 

6 - Hire Qualified Coaching Staff

Coaches are the backbone of your club. Hire individuals with coaching certifications who can help players learn how to set in volleyball. They should also have playing experience and a commitment to youth development.

Networking with high school coaches can help you find qualified assistants and ensure your club complements rather than conflicts with school programs.

Ensure they meet any required background checks and safety training (such as SafeSport certification).

7 - Plan Tryouts and Player Recruitment

Promote your tryout dates well in advance through social media, flyers, email newsletters, and word-of-mouth. Host open gym nights to generate interest. Make sure tryouts are well-organized, with clear evaluation tests and criteria.

8 - Purchase Equipment and Order Uniforms

Essential gear includes volleyballs, ball carts, first aid kits, whistles, and volleyball jerseys. For uniforms, find the right size for you and give yourself enough lead time to try them out before your first tournament.

9 - Register for Adult and Junior Tournaments

Create a rough season schedule that fits your team’s level and budget. Choose local or travel tournaments that align with your goals. Don’t forget to include regular practice sessions, optional clinics, and team-building events. 

10 - Promote Your Club to Target Age Groups

Build a website and maintain active social media profiles. Post about team news, tryouts, tournament results, and club achievements. Consider using tools like TeamSnap or LeagueApps to manage communication and scheduling.

Final Thoughts

Starting a volleyball club team takes work, but it is also a fantastic way to build community and support athlete growth. Whether you’re starting with one team or planning for multiple ages, staying organized and purpose-driven will make all the difference.

And remember, once your club is up and running, having quality gear helps your players feel confident and perform their best. From custom volleyball uniforms that showcase your club's identity to comfortable volleyball shorts and training skirts that allow for maximum mobility, the right apparel makes a difference