Running a Volleyball Tryout That Builds Teams and Trust
October 1, 2025
Running a Volleyball Tryout That Builds Teams and Trust
Volleyball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S.—especially in Oregon where OSAA just sanctioned boys' volleyball. Whether you're organizing a high school or club team, tryouts can be a powerful launchpad for culture, skill-building, and fairness. Here’s how to design an elite, inclusive tryout that attracts talent and sets the tone for your season.
Must-Haves for Volleyball Tryouts
Build Your Blueprint
Start with your in-season priorities. Your drills should reflect:
Game Simulation: Serve-receive, free ball transition, and 6-on-6
Athletic Testing: Vertical jump, shuttle runs, broad jump
Skill Work: Setting, hitting from all zones, passing lanes
Positional Rotation: Let everyone try all positions, even those outside their comfort zone
Communicate Clearly (and Visually)
Send a written plan to families with what to bring, wear, and expect
Include a map and schedule
Post the schedule on a whiteboard or banner
Have a designated “hype coach” warming up athletes beforehand
Stay Organized & Objective
Assign numbered shirts/pinnies with front and back visibility
Separate coaches from evaluators (don’t let them mingle or influence each other)
Use a scoring rubric that includes:
Technical skill
Game IQ
Coachability
Team communication
Keep It Positive and Professional
Don’t cut in front of peers or post names publicly
Offer post-tryout feedback
Encourage athletes who aren’t selected to pursue other options (rec, clinics, development)
Encourage Diversity and Inclusion
Ensure drills are accessible and inclusive for athletes with varying experience levels and abilities
Be aware of cultural and language differences
Create an environment where every athlete feels seen
Tryout “Icks” to Avoid
Governing Body Compliance & Key Dates
High School (OSAA):
Volleyball Tryout Window: August 18–22, 2025
Certification Requirements:
NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching
Concussion in Sports
Heat Illness Prevention
Oregon Safety Training Module
Club (USA Volleyball / CEVA / AAU):
Tryout Period (CEVA):
Girls Tryouts: November 17–18, 2025
Boys Tryouts: September 28–29, 2025
Coaches Must Be:
USAV Impact Certified
Background Checked
SafeSport Certified
Registered with their club and region
Coach Development Resources
Positive Coaching Alliance – Double-Goal Coach Certification
USA Volleyball IMPACT & SafeSport Certification
CEVA Coaching Education Portal
NFHS Learn Courses (Volleyball Specific)
Tryouts are about more than selecting athletes—they’re your first chance to build a culture of excellence, accountability, and joy.
Respect the process, trust your prep, and lead with purpose.