
From High School Hopeful to Pro Volleyball Player: Your Journey Begins Here 🚀

Matt Nikishin
•
6th August, 2025
1. Master the Fundamentals Inside & Out
Top-level players excel at the basics—and so should you. Every rep counts.
- Serving: Start with a reliable jump float or jump topspin serve. Perfect ball toss, consistent contact point, and follow-through matter.
- Passing: Drill platform angle control and footwork until they’re automatic. A great pass can turn a good teammate into a pro-caliber setter.
- Setting & Hitting: Learn to set from anywhere even in a pinch and develop a varied hitting arsenal with line shots, roll shots, and power attacks.
- Defense: Master defensive reads, fearless dives, and fast recoveries. A relentless defender earns trust and playing time.
Daily Drills You Can Start Today:
- Wall passes: 100 reps/day (forearm and overhead)
- Serving targets: Hit 10 consistent zones (1, 5, etc.)
- Agility work: Ladder drills and plyometrics three times a week
✅ Bonus Tip: Track your accuracy—serve success % and clean pass rate—to measure progress over weeks.
2. Build Pro-Level Athleticism

Physical strength and mobility are non-negotiable at higher levels.
- Vertical Jump: One-liner: squat jumps and box jumps build takeoff power.
- Explosive Strength: Lunges and Bulgarian split squats develop unilateral power for hitting and landing stability.
- Core Work: Planks, Russian twists, and med-ball slams support hitting power and injury prevention.
- Shoulder & Rotator Care: Daily band work (external rotations, T/Y/w) protects your arm from fatigue.
Weekly Routine Blueprint:
- 3–4 sessions of strength training
- 2 days of agility/cardio drills
- 1–2 rest or active recovery days
âś… Bonus Tip: Test your vertical jump and core hold times monthly to track gains and adjust training.
3. Learn Volleyball Like a Coach

Understanding strategy is what makes an average player extraordinary.
- Study Pro Matches: Pay attention to setter decisions in the Volleyball Nations League—why a ball goes to outside vs. middle.
- Ask Questions: “Why did the setter choose this option?” “How did they beat the block?”
- Know Every Position: Whether you set, hit, or pass, versatile players are in demand.
✅ Bonus Tip: Pause match video when your team is on defense—notice how blockers adjust and how digs shift—then replay with your observations.
4. Develop a Pro-Level Mental Game

Skill alone isn’t enough. Mindset sets pros apart.
- Resilience: Embrace mistakes as lessons. Bounce back fast and show consistent effort.
- Work Ethic: Be the first one on the court and the last one off. Train even on off-days.
- Leadership: Encourage teammates and set a positive tone—even during losses. High-energy presence speaks volumes.
âś… Bonus Tip: Keep a training mindset journal: note daily wins, setbacks, and how you responded.
5. Get Exposure & Opportunities to Shine

Talent matters but visibility makes it happen.
- Join a Strong Club: Play high-level, year-round volleyball—not just school ball.
- Attend Camps & Tryouts: College ID camps and national team tryouts showcase your skill directly to scouts.
- Record & Share: Create highlight reels and full-match clips. Start contacting college and pro coaches by sophomore year.
- Network Actively: Reach out to coaches with a short but professional introduction and your best video.
âś… Bonus Tip: Upload your top deuce or play-of-the-day clip with a voice note explaining your role and what coaches should notice.
📝 Sample Weekly Training Schedule
- Monday: Strength training + passing drills
- Tuesday: Team practice + serving & core work
- Wednesday: Plyometrics + agility + scrimmage
- Thursday: Skill refinement + positional drills
- Friday: Light practice + film study
- Saturday: Match or tournament performance
- Sunday: Active recovery (stretching, mobility)
âś… What You Should Do Next
- Choose and start one daily fundamental drill this week.
- Add two athletic sessions next week (strength or jump).
- Begin scrimmaging with intentional communication (“Mine!” “Help!”).
- Schedule a video strategy session with a coach or mentor.
Watch This Inspirational Player From High School:
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- Position-specific techniques
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- Communication and leadership presence
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📸 Kickstart your pro journey today—show the world you're ready.
