NCAA Division II Volleyball Walk On

Hello!

I am currently a freshman in college. I played volleyball from 7th-12th grade and 5 years of club. I didn’t think I could handle the pressure and stress of playing Division 2 NCAA volleyball, but now that I have experienced a semester without playing volleyball, I realize that I could have handled it.

When I was a senior in high school, I contacted the coach of the school I am currently attending, and she was slightly interested in me. I decided not to play, but now I definitely want to. I emailed her a few weeks ago, but I haven’t gotten a response. Do I still have a shot at playing? I was a pretty good volleyball receiving multiple awards at a division 1 high school. If so, what is the process for becoming a walk on? And do coaches normally already have their recruits picked out by now (Am I too late)? If you could help me and answer these questions, it would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

-K.D.

As you are on campus, go to the athletic department and go find the coach's office. Right now, the college coaches are neck deep in the season, so staying on top of emails is not a priority.  Just drop in, introduce yourself, ask if she has a few minutes and if not, when she may have a few minutes to talk.

Be very clear with the coach; you are already on campus as a freshman, give a brief description of your background, and ask if there would be the opportunity to tryout/train with the team during the spring semester.  DO NOT ask about a scholarship - Your goal is to be provided the chance to demonstrate your skill sets and hopefully become a member of the team.

Also, Google "NCAA Eligibility Center" - This will take you to the landing back for the NCAA Eligibility Center registration page.  Any student who wants to play NCAA DI or DII sports, must be certified as 'eligible' by the NCAA, even if they have already started in college.  Go to the landing page, and start the process; it takes many steps and you have to send in ACT/SAT test scores and final HS transcripts, but this is what must be done.  If you tell the coach that you are registered with the NCAA Eligibility Center and are sending in your information for final certification, this lets the coach know you are serious.

Last thing; play as much volleyball as you possibly can over the break - DO NOT think you can just show up in the spring and 'play your way' back into VB skills and shape.  The coach is under no obligatory time frame for any tryout or training with the team; if you are not sharp and play like you have not touched a ball in 8 months, then your first day of the tryout will be your last.

Good luck and go find that office!

The Coach