The CEV Schools project is a programme of Volleyball development aimed at linking primary and post primary schools with Volleyball Ireland affiliated clubs.
The programme uses a mix of teacher training, equipment and fun events to inspire children into Volleyball. A great example of this was a recent event delivered in conjunction with South Dublin Sports Partnership.
On Friday 13th December, 130 children took part in Volleyball for the first time. This is how it works…
1045: Children arrive and are allocated one ball between two players. The idea is to get as many touches of the ball as possible, but more importantly have fun!
1050: Children participate in a 30mins fun movement and ball confidence session. Working in pairs they carry out a range of fun games and activities that uses multiple touches of the ball. Teachers take part in this part too.
1120: The Children now move into more skill specific activities, seeing demonstrations of the pass, volley and spike from VI Development Officers. They work for 10mins on each skill. During this time the teachers are receiving some teacher training of their own.
12:00 After a quick break the participants move into 3v3 throw and catch Volleyball, ably assisted by Transition Year Students.
12:30: Once they have a grasp of the game it’s time for more fun – we now move into a special Glow in the Dark Volleyball activity provided by SDCC.
13:15: The kids and teachers depart exhausted but with smiles on their faces.
Commenting on the programme Deirdre Kelly of St Peter Apostle SNS said, “Kristof explained at the beginning that the content of the day was to ensure that all children were having fun, moving & learning a new skill. He demonstrated skills, kids practiced & then he moved on to the next skill. This was highly effective & he reinforced everything in the teacher training session later in the day. The whole day was fun & active & time flew by. The glow session at the end was brilliant.
Volleyball is an excellent sport for children of all abilities, the non contact element is more inclusive than other sports & the passing promotes great team work. I play volleyball with my classes & it never results in arguments among the kids & I generally have full participation.”
What happens next:
Each teacher is given lesson plans for 8 weeks, this will help them continue teaching Volleyball in school. At the end of the 8 week block, each school participates in a fun Volleyball blitz.
During this time Volleyball Ireland works with local clubs to host weekly junior sessions – creating a transition and link from School to Club.
If you want to get involved as a School or club contact Conor cdo@volleyballireland.com (in the west) or Norma Norma@volleyballireland.com (in the East).
