In Episode 13, Chuck and Brian welcome 12U Coach Jamal Corbin to the podcast to discuss the expectations of players at that age group along with some of his experiences over the years coaching both girls’ and boys’ volleyball.

Also debuting in this episode is Chuck’s first public singing performance (not really, but that sounds good).

For parents and players new to the club, wondering what the expectations are for players at that level, this episode is one we hope you find helpful.

In segment 1, we meet Jamal, hear about his coaching background, and his overall approach to coaching 12U.

Segment 2 features discussion of fair expectations to have of younger players, how to approach assigning positions with younger players, practice plans for that age level, and being aggressive especially with serving.

In Segment 3, the discussion shifts to the differences between coaching boys and girls. Also featured in this segment are some pertinent questions from our friends at Volleyball Moms.

Timeline:

1:45 Meet Coach Jamal.

2:55 Jamal’s coaching philosophy and the importance of using mistakes to promote growth.

4:20 Coach Jamal’s approach to 12U and appropriate challenges for players at that age.

7:33 Winning at that age level vs. playing the right way to benefit players in the long run.

12:57 The emotional nature of volleyball, how that can especially impact younger players, andthe importance of coaches remaining on an even keel.

14:53 Coaching your own child and a discussion of the delicate balance involved in handling the role of being a parent coach.

26:00 The skills that 12U players need to master. What does a coach look for at that level?

31:00 Positions and the value of having players be versatile to be better prepared moving forward.

35:26 Differences between practice structure for a 12U team vs. one for older players.

37:45 How aggressive should players be, especially with their serves, at that age level?

43:12 Differences in approach to coaching boys and girls, how to deliver criticism, and the importance of getting to know your players above all else.

52:30 The importance of younger volleyball players simply watching themselves and other volleyball players play.

59:00 Volleyball Moms questions of the day.

61:10 TNT upcoming events and wrap-up.