How I Can Help You Master Volleyball: My Journey and Experience

Hey Net Gain, Ballerz!

My first blog post?! I am so excited to start this journey with all of you!

I wanted to begin by giving more background on my volleyball experience!

Volleyball is a sport that has shaped my life for over 12 years. Throughout my journey, I’ve played numerous positions, faced countless challenges, and celebrated many victories. With this experience, I’m confident that I can help teach you how to play volleyball and guide you to success on the court. Allow me to share my story and why I’m uniquely qualified to help you reach your volleyball goals.

My Volleyball Journey: From Junior High to College

I first picked up volleyball in junior high, and from that moment, I was hooked. For most of my playing career, I specialized in the middle blocker position, which requires a unique combination of quickness, strength, and awareness. Throughout junior high and high school, I played middle blocker for my school teams, and I grew both as a player and as a leader on the court. Middle blockers are often responsible for blocking powerful hitters, reading the setter’s plays, and being a dominant force at the net, and I thrived in that role.

But my volleyball journey didn’t stop there. I wanted to continue honing my skills, so I joined club volleyball for 6 years, 12-18 years old.. The first 3 years, I played middle blocker, which helped me fine-tune my blocking and attacking skills. However, over the last three years of club volleyball, I transitioned to playing outside hitter. This shift allowed me to expand my game, learning how to attack from all angles, improving my serve receive, and become more versatile on the court. I developed and played on our national travel team for my club for my last 3 years.

From High School to College: A Full Ride Scholarship and More

My dedication to volleyball didn’t go unnoticed. After high school, I was fortunate enough to receive a full-ride athletic scholarship to play volleyball at Eastern Arizona College, a Division I junior college. There, I returned to my roots as a middle blocker, where I had the opportunity to face top-level competition and continue developing my skills. The college game introduced me to a faster, more intense level of play that challenged me every day.

After my time at Eastern Arizona College, I transferred to Minot State University, a Division II school in North Dakota. Now a junior, I continue to play mainly as a middle blocker, but I also have experience as a right-side on the court. Each position I’ve played has added a new layer to my game, and I’ve learned how to adapt my skills to various roles on the court. I am currently in my spring season, working harder than ever to prepare for my final college season, with a focus on continuing to refine my technique and leadership abilities.

What I Bring to the Table: Why I’m the Right Coach for You

Having played volleyball for so long, I’ve seen and experienced nearly every aspect of the game. From junior high to the college level, I’ve learned the ins and outs of different positions, how to communicate effectively with teammates, and how to stay mentally tough during high-pressure situations. These are the lessons I can teach you.

1. Position-Specific Training: Whether you're interested in playing as a middle blocker, outside hitter, or another position, I can provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed. I've been through the ranks and know what it takes to excel in each role.

2. Tactical Understanding: Volleyball is not just about physicality—it's also about strategy. I can teach you how to read the game, anticipate your opponent’s moves, and position yourself effectively.

3. Physical and Mental Preparation: I know the commitment it takes to excel, from the long hours in the gym to the mental focus required to stay sharp during intense games. I’ll help you build the mental and physical endurance to thrive on the court.

4. College-Level Insight: With my own experience at the college level, I can provide a unique perspective on what it takes to get recruited, how to handle the demands of college athletics, and what it takes to succeed in a competitive environment.

My Commitment to Helping You Succeed

As someone who has dedicated over a decade of my life to volleyball, I understand the hard work and determination required to improve. I’m passionate about helping others learn and grow, and I want to share everything I’ve learned throughout my career with you.

If you want to take your volleyball game to the next level—whether you’re a beginner or someone looking to refine your skills—I’m here to guide you every step of the way. My experience, both as a player and a student of the game, makes me uniquely qualified to be your coach and mentor. I’m committed to helping you achieve your goals and succeed on the court, just as I have throughout my own volleyball journey.

Join me on this journey! Together, we can unlock your full potential and make your volleyball dreams a reality.

Keep on Believing! Until next time!

-Mia Thompson

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