In an athlete’s eyes, the competition level, coaching staff and available resources are what matters most when choosing a club.
Choosing which club to play for can be difficult for an athlete. With so many options to consider, they can often feel overwhelmed. How can they tell which club is going to help them reach their full potential? For most athletes, there are three main factors: the competition level, coaching staff, and resources each club has to offer. Clubs can attract top talent by keeping these in mind.
1. Competition Level
Some athletes want to be a part of top-notch programs, while others could be looking to play recreationally. It’s all based on player preference and what they’re hoping to get out of the experience. In the case of ambitious players, if a player isn’t feeling challenged by your club, you can guarantee they’ll be on the lookout for better options.
As your club builds its roster, keep your athletes’ perspective in mind. Playing with teammates who are equally—if not more—talented, skilled and driven offers players constant inspiration to improve on a daily basis. When teammates work towards the same goals, they can push each other and hold themselves accountable. This leaves players feeling confident and prepared, rather than intimidated, when heading into high stake competitions and tournaments.
While the competitive drive may vary from player to player, you can guarantee athletes will seek out clubs that will fit their personal needs, and put them in the best position to reach their goals.
2. Coaching Staff
Players who are serious about getting to the next level need top-notch coaches willing to do everything it takes to help them get there. A club’s reputation and success is greatly influenced by its coaches—they’re the ones who directly impact players’ attitudes and performances. Players seek coaches who not only know what they are talking about, but know how to communicate it.
A coach’s feedback is crucial to player development. Players want acknowledgement for what they’ve done well, but also crave specific pointers on how they can improve. While words are impactful, video allows coaches to communicate objective feedback directly and efficiently to each individual player.
Athletes look for coaches who are experts and who build on their own knowledge. With video, coaches can provide tangible evidence to back up their evaluations. This establishes credibility with their players and builds trust between coaches and their athletes.
Coaches need to be able to inspire athletes. The best coaches cultivate an environment of trust to help their athletes reach their full potential. Coaches can make or break a program—be sure you’re using their expertise as a selling point for your club.
3. Resources
Competitive athletes understand that to be the very best, their growth cannot be limited solely to their actions on the court. They see the bigger picture and know all areas of their life will affect their performance. Players are more likely to lean towards a club that offers the resources they need to grow.
Does your club help players excel in the weight room? What about ways to improve their nutrition or mental well-being? Do you give players the chance to study video of their performance from anywhere? Clubs need to focus on helping their athletes in many areas to attract the best talent.
There could be many other influencers for players choosing a club. But you can bet competition level, coaches and resources will help determine the best fit for them.
Learn how to set your club apart with our free eBook, created with The Art of Coaching Volleyball.