The final whistle blows on the club volleyball season in May, signaling relief for some and the start of a new kind of stress for others. Welcome to the "Silly Season," a two-month whirlwind of tryouts that has parents shuttling their aspiring athletes across town, wallets feeling lighter, and everyone questioning their sanity.
What is the "Silly Season," Anyway?
For the uninitiated, the "Silly Season" is the wild west of club volleyball. It's a period where established teams might dissolve, new ones form, and players shuffle between clubs in search of the perfect fit.
The process typically involves attending multiple tryouts per week at various clubs. Each session can last a couple of hours, with athletes running through drills under the watchful eyes of coaches. While this may sound structured, it can often feel like organized chaos.
Navigating the Chaos: A Parent's Perspective
As a parent, you're not just a spectator in this game. You're the chauffeur, the ATM, and the emotional support system. The financial strain of tryout fees, gas, and potential new gear can add up quickly.
Then there's the emotional rollercoaster. Will your child make the team they want? Will they be placed on a lower-level team than expected? The lack of clear communication from clubs can leave you feeling anxious and in the dark.
A Coach's Conundrum
It's not all smooth sailing for coaches either. They're tasked with evaluating hundreds of players in a short timeframe and building competitive teams. The current system, while allowing for flexibility, often lacks the structure and resources to make it efficient or transparent. This can lead to frustration for everyone involved.
Why Does it Have to Be This Way?
The "Silly Season" has become ingrained in the club volleyball culture, but is it really necessary? Some argue that it's a money-grab for clubs, while others see it as a necessary evil in a competitive sport.
The reality is likely somewhere in between. Clubs often lack the resources to streamline tryouts, and the pressure to field winning teams can lead to a "more is more" mentality.
Strategies for Survival
- Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that this process can be long and unpredictable.
- Budget Wisely: Those tryout fees can add up. Plan accordingly.
- Communicate Openly: Talk to your child about their goals and feelings.
- Don't Overthink It: Sometimes, it's just a matter of finding the right fit.
- Advocate for Change: Share your experiences and let clubs know what you'd like to see improved.
Your Voice Matters: The Silly Season Survey
We want to hear from you! Take our short survey to share your experiences and help us advocate for a better tryout process. Your feedback will be invaluable in understanding the challenges parents face and identifying potential solutions.
Please fill out our quick 5 question survey. Lets advocate for change.
Let's work together to make the Silly Season a little less silly and a lot more productive for everyone involved.
