United States Youth Volleyball League

 “Make a difference in the life of a child. that is my motto" says USYVL Director of Programs Diana Presta. With USYVL being a volunteer organization, the leader of USYVL’s Programs department embraces volunteerism herself. Diana Presta was recently nominated for the AYSO Volunteer of the year through a program that the organization and one of its main sponsors enacted in 2009. While Diana did not receive the Volunteer of the Year award she was still recognized for her countless hours of Volunteerism with the “AYSO Outstanding Volunteer” for 2009. “Volunteers don’t always realize the difference they make to these kids and how rewarding it can be”, Diana stated. As Regional Commissioner in Mission Viejo, California, Diana spends from 5-20 hours a week on her volunteer duties and therefore relates well to our volunteers here at USYVL,  “It is easier to volunteer for USYVL as the time commitment is much less and the environment much more relaxed,” says Diana. “Whether you are a parent or former player there is a place for you in USYVL.”

So come on out and experience the many rewards of volunteering. We can always use more coaches, assistant coaches, first-aid assistants, registration assistants & Site Directors. Most USYVL volunteer positions don’t require a lot of your time. So even if you only have an hour to give here or there we can find a spot for you. Former players can volunteer as coaches or assistant coaches and earn Community Service hours for High School graduation requirements or for your College applications.

 Make a difference in the lives of your children and your community. The United States Youth Volleyball League is in constant need of donations in order to provide such a quality service. Be it time, money, net sponsorship, or merchandise, the USYVL needs your help. Contact the National Office at 1-888-988-7985 or your Sponsorship Administrator to see how you can make a difference today.

Coaches Corner Volleyball is a sport that involves a tremendous amount of hand-eye coordination. Improvement comes from constantly touching the ball either by doing drills or playing games. Here are a few suggestions that you might want to consider during the off-season.  A great drill to improve setting skills is accomplished by sitting on the living room floor (even while watching TV) and setting the ball above your head. See how many times you can consecutively set the ball without dropping it on the floor. This really develops arm strength and works on the positioning of your hands while getting your wrists to release the ball quickly. Remember that the sets should be very low and quick!  Another great drill is passing against a wall, preferably one like that found at a handball court. With this drill, work on your passing form. Be sure to move your feet as the ball comes off the wall fairly quickly and really works on developing quickness. Challenge yourself by trying to pass the ball to the same spot every time. This simulates the game situation where you are constantly passing the ball to the setter in the same spot. Keep the passes on the wall at a distance of about 5-10 feet. Finally, there is nothing like calling your fellow USYVL friends to play games. Many schools and parks in the community have indoor, grass or sand volleyball courts. You can go to your city website and check out the park facilities in your community. Whether you get a group to play doubles, fours or six person, just getting on the court and playing is extremely beneficial. So don’t put your volleyball away for the winter, make sure to keep it handy since there are always opportunities to practice or play volleyball!