Volleyball Ireland has launched a new online Volleyball programme for youngsters. Virtual Volley will begin as a 4 week initiative aimed at players aged 11-18 years old, and will feature a range of guest talks, volleyball skill drills and a volleyball fitness circuit. The project is supported by Vine Digital Ireland, who have recently developed a new website for the Association.
Ireland’s National Team players from indoor and beach will lead much of the activities, with u20 Men’s Captain Gareth Gilmartin, u17 girls skipper Maria Jones and other top players lined up to take part.
Volleyball Ireland Development Coordinator (Education & Player Pathways) Conor Flood said, “We are really keen to keep young players engaged in the sport whilst the Youth National League is on hold, and whilst it doesn’t replicate club or school training it’s the next best thing. Each session will be interactive with lots of ball work as well as some insights from our star players.”
The four week course is free of charge, and an innovative Volley@Home resource pack featuring a light weight training ball, tennis ball and branded face mask is available to purchase for €20 – the pack is particularly useful for those that may not have a volleyball at home and is available through the Volleyball Ireland online shop, for Virtual Volleyballers only.
The programme content has been developed through consultation with Youth League players. Norma McIntyre, Club Development Coordinator added, “The programme has been developed by the players with an online forum and surveys which have thrown up some great ideas. The feedback we have is that young players really miss being active and want to keep their volleyball skill levels and fitness up. They were also really keen to learn from Irish players and to get to know a little more about their journeys in the sport.”
Each session lasts one hour from 6pm, every Thursday evening starting February 11th. Places are limited and you can sign up here > https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uQdc0OXZSV-B2wkO6xRUrA
