FUN in VOLLEYBALL 101 | How to Adapt the Youth Game for Growth and Enjoyment with John Kessel

A young athlete’s first experience with volleyball can make or break their desire to continue playing the game. John Kessel, former Director of Sport Development at USA Volleyball, guides coaches through ways to adapt volleyball, as an athlete is learning, to ensure the court remains a place of growth and fun. Kessel emphasizes paying attention to adaptations from other sports, letting youth play doubles for more touches, creating nets with creative tools and in unconventional places, keeping kids moving, and creating simple games over drills. 00:00 - The Mission to Grow the Game 02:45 - Why Volleyball is a Unique Challenge 06:37 - Doubles is the Fastest Way to Learn 08:43 - The Philosophy: Games Over Drills 15:25 - How to Play Volleyball Anywhere 23:31 - Exploring Global Volleyball Variations 28:54 - The Power of Sitting Volleyball 36:56 - Game-Like Wall Practice & Resources