Top 7 Qualities College Coaches Seek in Volleyball Players

1. Consistency Over Flashiness

Coaches want dependable players, not just highlight-reel heroes. Can you make smart, high-percentage plays—again and again?

How to develop it:

Focus on clean, controlled passes.
Practice decision-making under pressure.
Build routines to stay mentally locked in.

🔁 “Be the player coaches can trust when it’s match point.”

2. Confident, Positive Body Language

Two volleyball players at the net during a championship match. One player, in a light jersey with "Kingsmen 20" on the back, is attempting to block a spike from the opposing player in a dark jersey. The ball is visible above the net.

Your attitude shows before you say a word. Coaches love athletes who bounce back quickly from mistakes and never sulk.

How to improve it:

Watch footage of yourself and evaluate reactions.
Use reset cues like clapping or saying “next ball.”
Keep energy high for your team—even when you’re off.

😐 “Emotionally steady leaders win games and respect.”

3. Clear, Smart Communication

A volleyball team huddles on the court with arms around each other, wearing matching uniforms.

Are you vocal? Are you reading plays out loud? Communication is a skill, and coaches value players who organize and energize.

How to improve it:

Call everything: “short!” “line!” “free!”
Lead mini-huddles after each point.
Encourage teammates constantly.

📣 “Great players talk. Great leaders communicate.”

4. Coachability and Attitude

A group of volleyball players wearing black "Aggies" jerseys are gathered on a court, appearing to celebrate an event. A coach is speaking energetically to them, while photographers capture the moment. Spectators are visible in the background.

Talent means nothing if you won’t listen. Coaches look for players who are eager to improve, not argue.

How to show it:

Accept feedback with eye contact and a nod.
Apply what you’re told—even mid-practice.
Ask smart questions that show you’re engaged.

✅ “Hustle + humility = every coach’s dream.”

5. Volleyball IQ

A volleyball player in a white jersey jumps to spike the ball over the net, while two players in blue attempt to block the shot. The scene takes place in an indoor court with spectators in the background.

It’s not just how hard you hit—it’s how well you understand the game. Do you know where to be? Can you read the block?

How to build it:

Watch high-level volleyball and analyze positioning.
Ask questions about tactics during practices.
Learn every position—not just your own.

🧠 “Smart players make winning plays.”

6. Academic Responsibility

A women's volleyball team enters an indoor stadium, ready for a match. They're wearing white jerseys and navy shorts. A large banner reading "Championship" hangs overhead, and spectators are seen in the background clapping.

If you’re not eligible, you’re not recruitable. Coaches want athletes who handle their business in the classroom too.

What to focus on:

Keep your GPA above the NCAA minimum (2.3+ for D1).
Communicate with teachers and plan around tournaments.
Stay organized with tests and deadlines.

📚 “Your grades are your first stat on a coach’s sheet.”

7. Highlight Videos That Showcase the Right Stuff

Three volleyball players from BYU jump to block a ball at the net during an NCAA Volleyball Championship match.

Coaches often see you first through a screen. Your highlight reel needs to be clean, efficient, and full of coach-relevant plays.

What to include:

Short clips (30–90 seconds of top plays).
Different skills: passing, hitting, blocking, serving.
Game footage—NOT just drills.

🎥 “Make every second of video prove your value.”

Final Thoughts

A women's volleyball team huddles together with their coach, who is speaking to them. The players are wearing white uniforms with blue accents, and they are listening intently.

If you're wondering what college coaches look for in volleyball players, remember: they want reliable, vocal, mentally tough, coachable athletes who make their teammates better. Work on these 7 areas consistently, and your recruiting chances will soar.