Tryout Season Is Here. It’s Time to Show Off All Your Hard Work!
Over the past few months, we’ve watched players level up. Serving has gotten stronger. Footwork is faster. Communication is sharper. And confidence? Off the charts.
Whether you're returning to club for another season or trying out for the very first time, this is your opportunity to step on the court and show coaches how much you’ve grown.
Now’s your moment.
Tryout season is here for several top NC club volleyball programs, and it’s your chance to shine. Whether you’re new to club or coming back stronger than ever, this is the time to let coaches see all the growth and hustle you’ve built.
Why This Tryout Season Matters
This isn’t about who you were last season. This is about who you are right now. You’re faster, smarter, stronger, and more confident. You've trained through the summer, and now it's time to step up and show it.
Club volleyball tryouts are competitive, but so are you. You’ve put in the work, and now you get to compete for the next step in your volleyball journey.
Youth Volleyball Tryout Info – 2025 Season
It’s always recommended you double check the respective websites and pages of any club. These dates are subject to change.
NC Intensity Volleyball Club
Tryouts for 11U–14U:
September 6, 7, and 13
Stay updated via Instagram: @ncintensityvolleyball
Carolina Advantage Volleyball Club
Tryouts for 11U–14U:
October 4 and 5
More info: advantagevb.com
Fuquay Revolution Volleyball
Tryout dates for younger age divisions (11U–14U) have not been announced yet.
Keep checking: fuquayrevolutionvolleyball.com
Top Tips to Stand Out at Volleyball Tryouts
Volleyball tryouts for kids and teens can be nerve-wracking, but your mindset matters. Here’s what coaches are looking for:
Positive energy and coachable attitude
Consistent effort and hustle
Solid fundamentals and smart decision making
Strong communication and teamwork
Players who lead by example… even in warm ups!
You’ve been training hard through the off-season, this is your time to take the lead.
Prep Like a Pro
Before your tryout, make sure you:
Register early and bring water + proper gear
Get great sleep the night before
Eat a balanced meal a few hours before
Warm up with purpose, not passively
Walk in with confidence. You’ve earned this!
Final Word: Let’s Go!
Whether you're trying out for 11U, 12U, 13U, or 14U volleyball, remember this: you're not the same player you were months ago. You've worked, you've improved, and now it's time to perform.
Be proud of how far you've come.
Be excited to reach the next level.
And most importantly — have fun and own your moment.
Good luck to everyone!
How to Register for Middle School Sports in Harnett and Wake County (2025–2026)
How to begin the registration process for middle school sports in Harnett and Wake County.
If your child is planning to play middle school sports this school year, it’s important to complete the correct registration process as early as possible. Both Harnett County Schools and Wake County Public Schools (WCPSS) use online systems for athletics registration — but each county uses a different platform with different requirements.
This guide breaks down what parents need to do in each district to make sure their student-athlete is eligible for tryouts, practices, and games. Please note: these requirements change periodically. It is best to double check with your specific school to ensure all steps are completed. This is an excellent way to get started.
Registration Overview: Harnett County vs. Wake County
| Harnett County (Aktivate) | Wake County (DragonFlyMax) | |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Platform | Aktivate | DragonFlyMax (WakeCountyAthletics.com) |
| Forms & Uploads | Physicals, waivers, emergency contacts via Aktivate | Physical form, medical, concussion, participation via DragonFly |
| Physical Validity | Dependent on Harnett County rules | Valid for 395 days from exam date |
| Grade Levels Eligible | Typically 6th–8th | Only 7th & 8th; 6th-grade ineligible |
| Extra Steps | N/A | Some schools need additional “Ticket to Play” form |
| Clearance Process | Completed through Aktivate | DragonFly shows green checks; confirmation emails sent |
Harnett County Schools: How to Register
To register a student-athlete in Harnett County, parents must use Aktivate:
Visit www.aktivate.com
Create an account (or log in)
Select your school and complete your athlete’s profile
Upload a current sports physical (get the form here)
Sign all necessary documents and waivers
Wait for clearance confirmation in the system
When to Register:
It’s best to register well before tryouts begin. Each sport has different start dates, so check with your child’s school for deadlines.
Wake County Schools (WCPSS): How to Register
Students in Wake County register through DragonFly Max, accessed via Wake County Athletics:
Choose your child’s middle school
Follow the links to create a DragonFly Max account
Upload required documents, including:
Completed WCPSS pre-participation physical form
Medical history
Parent/guardian permissions
Concussion awareness form
Some schools may also require a “Ticket to Play” form through Google Forms — check with your school.
Reminder: Only 7th and 8th graders may participate in athletics in Wake County Schools.
Final Tips for Parents
Start early: Give yourself time to book physical exams and collect documentation
Double-check school-specific requirements through their website and Athletic Department
Don’t wait until the week of tryouts to register — students cannot try out without being cleared
If you're a parent in Harnett or Wake County and want to make sure your child is ready for middle school sports this year, bookmark this page and share it with other families in your community!
Good Luck with tryouts this upcoming school year!
Loosen Up & Level Up with Rebel PT at Volley and Vibes
Meet Dr. Courtney Smiach, PT, DPT, OCS
Owner of Rebel PT & Co-Owner of Rebel Cycle – Fuquay-Varina, NC (@rebel.pt)
We’re excited to welcome Dr. Courtney Smiach and Dr. Christy Payne to our FREE Volley & Vibes in the Park event! As the owner of Rebel PT in Fuquay-Varina and a board-certified orthopedic physical therapist, Dr. Courtney brings years of experience helping athletes stay strong, mobile, and injury-free.
At the event, they’ll be leading group stretches, offering quick mobility screenings, and sharing advice on common areas volleyball players should focus on—from shoulder and knee care to flexibility and core strength. Whether your child is just starting out or gearing up for school tryouts, they will be available to answer questions and provide tips that can make a big difference on the court.
Courtney holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and is an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist with advanced training in movement, recovery, and performance. She works with a wide range of athletes, helping them move better, feel stronger, and bounce back from injuries smarter—not harder.
Outside the clinic, she is a dedicated fitness instructor and co-owner of Rebel Cycle, where she leads high-energy spin classes. She’s also a dog lover, a coffee regular, and proud to be part of the Fuquay-Varina community.
Dr. Christy Payne, PT, DPT
Dr. Christy Payne is a physical therapist with a background in sports and a heart for education. She will also be on-site offering mobility screenings, answering questions, and sharing practical ways athletes can care for their bodies—on and off the court.
Originally from Hawai’i, Dr. Christy moved to the mainland for college and earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Campbell University. Since then, she’s worked with a wide range of clients—from postpartum moms to high-performing athletes—always with the same goal: helping people feel strong, confident, and ready to move well in everyday life.
An Interview with Kat Entwistle: Helping Kids Build a Healthy Relationship with Food, Hydration, and Their Bodies Through Sports
We are thrilled to welcome Kat Entwistle as our special guest for our June 23 Clinic. Kat is a certified nutritionist with Original Strength Institute in Fuquay-Varina and also the owner of Home Court Pickleball, a growing facility dedicated to active living and community wellness.
Kat is a certified nutrition coach, former athlete, and mom of two girls - including one competitive tumbler who keeps her on her toes (literally and figuratively). She helps busy women in their 40s boost their energy, feel stronger, and finally feel confident in their food decisions - without falling for diet culture nonsense. Her mission? To help women break free from the cycles they grew up with.
As a coach, she is known for her realistic, sustainable approach. She makes nutrition feel doable (and even enjoyable!) in real life, not just on paper. Whether it’s through personalized coaching, group programs, or weekly meal plans, she meets people where they are and helps them build routines that fit the chaos of everyday life.
When she’s not coaching, you’ll find her hanging out with her husband and two girls, watering her plants like they pay rent, reading a good book, or spending time with friends.
We couldn’t pass on the opportunity to pick her brain and learn more about sports and nutrition, so we asked Kat to answer a few common questions we often hear from athletes and parents. Here’s how our conversation went.
Nutrition Basics for Young Athletes
What are the most important things kids should know about food and energy?
Food is fuel for everything they do - whether it's school, sports, hanging out with friends, or just feeling good in their body. When they (and the parents!) eat enough of the right types of food, you have more energy, better focus, and a better mood. Skipping meals or eating mostly ultra-processed snacks can leave you tired, cranky, or struggling to perform your best. Their body isn’t just growing - it's also learning, moving, thinking, and playing. That takes energy!
Key takeaways:
– Carbs give quick energy (think fruit, rice, pasta, oats).
– Protein helps muscles recover and grow (like chicken, eggs, yogurt, beans).
– Fats support your brain and hormones (nuts, seeds, cheese, avocado, olive oil).
– Produce gives your body the vitamins and minerals it needs to run well - like adding oil to an engine!
How can we teach them that food is fuel, not a reward or punishment?
It starts with how we talk about food. Instead of saying, “You were good, so you get a cookie,” try: “Let’s have a snack that’ll help you stay full till dinner.” Or: “Your body worked hard today - let’s give it what it needs.”
Avoid labeling foods as “good” or “bad.” Instead, talk about how some foods help you grow and feel strong, while others are fun to enjoy sometimes but won’t keep you full or focused for long.
Our goal is to build a neutral, respectful relationship with food. One where they understand how different foods work, but don’t assign shame or status to eating.
What does a “balanced plate” look like for a kid before practice or games?
Balanced Plate Breakdown (1–3 hours before activity):
– Carbs (main focus): rice, pasta, bread, fruit, crackers, oatmeal. These give energy for movement.
– Protein (supporting role): chicken, deli turkey, eggs, Greek yogurt, cheese stick. These help with endurance and recovery.
– A little fat: peanut butter, avocado, nuts. These are slow digesting so only have a little to prevent your belly from being too “heavy.”
– Hydration: Water is key! If it’s a longer or sweaty session, a pinch of salt and splash of juice in water can help with electrolytes.
Example snack 30–60 minutes before practice:
Banana with a spoonful of peanut butter
Half a turkey sandwich
Yogurt with granola and berries
Crackers and cheese with water
The goal is to fuel the work ahead, not just “fill the tank.” Think: energy now, recovery later, without the mid-practice crash.
Hydration: What Kids Need to Know
How can kids tell if they’re dehydrated?
Most kids (and adults) don’t recognize dehydration until they’re already feeling off - and by then, performance, focus, and mood are already taking a hit.
Signs they might be dehydrated:
Headache or feeling “foggy”
Tired even if they slept enough
Cranky or sluggish
Muscle cramps
Dark yellow pee (pee should be light like lemonade - not apple juice!)
Dry mouth or lips
Feeling dizzy or “off” at practice
Teach them to do a quick pee check. Checking your pee color is the easiest way to assess your hydration level. Light = you're good. Dark (or you’ve not peed in a while) = drink up.
What are some simple hydration habits that actually stick?
Forget complicated water-tracking charts. Kids need routines that fit into their day without effort.
Sticky hydration habits:
Water bottle with them at school and practice. Make it part of their grab-and-go like a backpack or phone.
Start the day with water. A glass of water before breakfast sets the tone.
Drink at every meal. Stack eating and drinking habits together and drink water at each meal.
Set a “sip cue.” Take a drink after each class change, at lunch, and when walking to the car.
Flavor it up. Add lemon, cucumber, berries, or a splash of juice to make it more fun.
Chug & cheer. Make it a game for younger kids or teams (who can finish their bottle by the end of practice?).
What’s your take on sports drinks? When are they helpful and when are they just sugar?
Here’s the deal: most kids don’t need a sports drink for regular day-to-day activity or casual practice. They’re basically sugary water with salt and coloring. BUT there are times they’re useful and they are still not “bad.”
When sports drinks can help:
Practices or games longer than 60–90 minutes, especially in the heat
Back-to-back events or tournaments
If the kid is a heavy sweater or cramps easily
When they won’t eat but will sip
Smart swap: Mix half sports drink with half water. You still get electrolytes and carbs without the sugar bomb.
Ideas for hydrating in hot weather tournaments or long days of play.
These are marathon days, not sprints—hydration needs to start before the first whistle.
Hydration game plan:
Start hydrated. Big glass of water at breakfast, not just sipping in the car.
Bring more than water. Mix in electrolyte packets (like LMNT, Liquid I.V., or Nuun), diluted sports drinks, or coconut water.
Set a timer. Sip every 20 minutes if they’re not naturally drinking.
Cool the core. Cold drinks, wet towels, or frozen grapes between games help lower body temp.
Snack wisely. Water-rich foods like watermelon, oranges, cucumbers, or popsicles count toward hydration.
Pro tip for parents: Don’t wait for “I’m thirsty.” If they’re asking, they’re already behind.
Body Positivity and Confidence in Athletics
What can we do as coaches to help all kids feel good in their bodies, even if they’re different sizes or skill levels?
– Celebrate effort, not outcome. Praise hustle, improvement, sportsmanship, and teamwork more than wins or physical achievements. “You worked really hard on that drill!” > “You’re so fast!”
– Highlight diverse strengths. Not everyone is the fastest or strongest but someone might be the best encourager, most consistent, or most creative. Name it!
– Avoid comparisons. Refrain from singling out kids as examples based on performance or appearance. Focus on individual progress instead.
– Model body neutrality. No body talk about yourself or others, even in passing. Kids absorb everything.
– Make modifications normal. Present alternative movements or drills as options for anyone, not just for kids who “can’t keep up.” Normalize variety.
– Use inclusive visuals and examples. Represent different body types, abilities, and backgrounds in your materials, posters, or stories you share.
How can we talk about performance and nutrition without making it about weight or appearance?
– Focus on function over form. “Eating protein helps your muscles recover faster” is empowering. “You need to eat this to be lean” is loaded.
– Talk about energy and feeling strong. “What foods help you feel energized?” or “Let’s fuel our bodies to do what we love!”
– Use neutral language around food. No food is “bad” or “junk.” Use terms like “everyday foods” vs. “sometimes foods” if needed. “Good, Better, Best” also work really well here with everything being “good” with the opportunity to eat “better” and “best” to support performance.
– Teach body literacy. Help kids learn to listen to hunger, fullness, and how different foods affect how they feel and perform.
– Don’t assign moral value to food or fitness. It’s not about “being good” or “cheating.” It’s about choices that support goals, energy, and enjoyment.
What language should we use around food and fitness that builds confidence?
– “Strong” > “skinny”
– “Let’s fuel up!” > “Let’s burn it off.”
– “Your body works hard for you - let’s take care of it.”
– “There are lots of ways to be healthy and active.”
– “Everybody is different, and that’s a good thing.”
– “What’s one way you can support your body today?”
– “Let’s set goals based on what you can do, not what you weigh.”
Myths, Fads, and Red Flags
What trends or “rules” are you seeing that concern you when it comes to young athletes?
Oh, where to start? A few big red flags I’m seeing:
“Clean eating” taken too far. Kids (and adults) avoiding entire food groups because they think carbs are “bad” or sugar is “toxic.” Newsflash: carbs = fuel, especially for athletes.
Intermittent fasting for teens (or adults). Hard no. Growing bodies need regular fuel - skipping breakfast before practice doesn’t make you disciplined, it makes you slower, foggier, and crankier.
Supplements over food. Protein powders, creatine, or pre-workouts being used instead of real meals. Let’s build a solid foundation before jumping to powders and pills.
“No pain, no gain” mindset around hunger. Feeling hungry is not weakness. It’s your body’s way of saying, “Hey, I’m doing a lot - fuel me!”
What’s concerning is that these trends sound “disciplined” or “healthy” at first glance. But they’re often rooted in diet culture or misinformation—not performance science.
How do you help families avoid accidentally teaching diet culture to kids?
As noted above, it starts with how we talk about food, bodies, and movement. Some examples of helpful shifts:
Swap “good” vs “bad” food talk with:
“This food helps you stay full longer.”
“That’s more of a fun food—it doesn’t keep you full, but it tastes good!”
Avoid body-focused praise or criticism.
Instead of “You look so fit,” try “You’ve been really strong and consistent lately!”
Don’t tie food to guilt. No “you shouldn’t be eating that” at the dinner table especially not in front of a kid who’s learning to trust their hunger.
Also: modeling matters. If a parent is constantly dieting, talking about needing to “burn off” dessert, or skipping meals, kids absorb that fast even if the words aren’t directed at them.
Are there any food rules you think should be broken?
Absolutely. Here are a few that I’d love to not ever talk about again:
🚫 “You have to clean your plate.”
✅ Teach kids to eat until they’re satisfied, not stuffed. Let them learn hunger and fullness cues.
🚫 “No snacks after 8pm.”
✅ If a kid is active and hungry after practice, they need that recovery fuel before bed. Your body will still digest food that is eaten, no matter the time of day.
🚫 “Carbs make you gain weight.”
✅ Carbs are the primary fuel source for active bodies and brains. Whole grains, fruit, and starchy veggies are MVPs for athletes.
🚫 “Dessert only if you’ve been good.”
✅ All foods can fit. Treats don’t need to be earned like gold stars. That mindset sets the stage for binge/restrict cycles later. You can also include them with dinner to remove novelty - they just become part of a normal, balanced plate.
The bottom line? The more rules we place around food, the more we disconnect kids from listening to their own bodies. Let’s give them the tools to understand food, not fear it.
Empowering Kids to Take Ownership
How can we get kids more involved in their own nutrition — planning, packing snacks, or choosing healthy options?
The key is involvement over perfection. If kids help pick it, prep it, or pack it, they're way more likely to eat it (and feel good about that choice). Here’s how to get them in the game:
Snack Station
Set up a “grab and go” snack drawer or bin with parent-approved options. Let them build their own snack bags from categories:
Protein (cheese stick, hard-boiled egg, trail mix)
Produce (fruit cup, mini bell peppers, apple slices)
Fun (a few pretzels, granola bar, popcorn)
This gives structure and choice - without the daily negotiating.
Give them a say in planning
Let them choose one dinner each week. If they’re younger, give 2-3 healthy options and let them pick. If they’re older, show them how to balance a plate (protein + carb + produce) and let them create a menu.
Involve them in grocery shopping
It doesn’t have to be a whole ordeal. Let them be in charge of choosing fruit for the week or finding a new veggie to try. Bonus points if they help prep it.
Teach the “why” without a lecture
Frame food as fuel for what they care about:
“This helps your muscles recover after practice.”
“Carbs give you energy for school and tumbling.”
“This snack will help your brain stay sharp for your test.”
What age-appropriate tools or routines help kids build confidence in making smart choices?
Honestly, the easiest—and most effective—way to build confidence around nutrition is by using a simple, consistent balanced plate template as a guide. It’s not about perfection, it’s about repetition and routine.
The OSI Eat Strong Balanced Meal Template is the exact tool I use with every single one of my clients, and it works just as well for kids. Print it out. Stick it on the fridge. Refer to it when planning meals and snacks at home, packing lunchboxes, or even choosing foods on the go.
It helps take the guesswork out of what “balanced” actually means and gives kids a visual they can grow with. Over time, they learn how to fuel their bodies in a way that supports school, sports, and all the running around that comes with being a kid.
And the best part? It travels. Whether you’re eating out, on vacation, or raiding a concession stand between games, the same guide applies. It’s a no-pressure way to help kids build smart habits that stick.
What’s one message you hope every kid hears about food and their body?
Food is not good or bad. It’s fuel for everything your body can do: run, play, think, grow, recover, and be awesome. You don’t have to earn food, and you don’t need to feel guilty for enjoying it. Every body is different, and the best thing you can do is learn how to listen to yours, take care of it, and treat it with respect.
Where can families find you or learn more?
You can find me at @coachkatsays on Instagram, where I share practical nutrition tips, meal ideas, and strategies for building energy-boosting habits that actually work in real life.
While I don’t coach kids directly, I work with parents - especially busy moms - who want to feel stronger, more energized, and more confident in their food choices. When parents build better habits, the whole family benefits.
If you’re looking for realistic, non-diet-y support, head to the OSI Nutrition Coaching website to check out coaching options, grab a free resource, or book a discovery call.
Join the Movement: Panther Volleyball’s Summer Tournament is July 19!
Calling all players, teams, schools, and local businesses — we need YOU on the court.
Panther Volleyball Training is hosting a Community Volleyball Tournament & Fundraiser on Saturday, July 19 at Jack Marley Park in Angier, and this is more than just a game. This is a chance for our community to come together and support a mission that matters.
We’re raising $2,000 to provide safe, quality volleyball equipment — including a full-sized net and volleyballs — for elementary school students in our community. The goal? Give kids the tools and confidence to fall in love with the game.
Why You Should Register:
Fun, low-pressure tournament – Great for beginners, families, alumni, rec teams, and co-workers
Registration is donation based the suggestion is $10/player
Every dollar goes toward making volleyball more accessible for local kids
Perfect for schools, youth groups, gyms, church groups, and businesses that want to show up and give back
What We Need:
Youth Ages Middle School - High School: Sign yourself up and we will place you in your age division
Schools & Coaches: Rally your staff, your older students, and athletic supporters — form a team!
Local Businesses: Register your employees for a fun team-building day, or become a sponsor
Adults of all ages: Come out and play for the kids who’ll get to enjoy this sport next
Event Details:
Location: Jack Marley Park, Angier NC
Date: Saturday, July 19
Time: 9:00 AM start
Suggested Donation: $10/player — all donations welcome!
How to Register:
Click here or follow the sign up link below to get more info. You can sign up as an individual or come with a full team organized! REGISTRATION ENDS JULY 4
Need help registering a team or want to donate gear or raffle items? Email us at panthervolleytraining@gmail.com or message us on Instagram or Facebook @panthervolleytraining.
Let’s Pack the Park
This is more than volleyball. It’s about community, and giving every kid a shot to learn, grow, and play.
Whether you’re a business owner, school staff member, coach, parent, or player — join us.
Let’s make this event amazing!
We’re counting on you.
Skills & Drills: A Morning of Sunshine, Sweat, and Smiles
Saturday’s Skills & Drills session reminded us exactly why we do this. Players of all experience levels came out ready to move, learn, and connect — and they showed up in every way. From warm-up to the final scrimmage, there was focus, hustle, laughter, and lots of high-fives.
We worked on core skills like aiming our serves, placing sets properly, and proper platforms. Players took feedback and applied it fast — the kind of growth we love to see. Whether it was your first time touching a volleyball or your tenth clinic, you had fun, you improved, and you made the court a better place.
Huge thank you to Coach Mosley, Coach Julie, and Coach Molly for leading the way with energy and expert instruction. You created a space where everyone felt encouraged and challenged — and it showed in the results.
These events are about more than just volleyball. They’re about confidence, connection, and community. And the best part? We’re just getting started.
Here’s What’s Next
Volley & Vibes at the Park
June 28 - Jack Marley Park
We’re taking it outside. Come out to the park for a FREE laid-back, open-play volleyball session for all ages — yes, adults too. No pressure, just good vibes and fun on the court. Bring a chair, bring your friends, or just show up and jump in. RSVP HERE
Summer Volleyball Tournament
in the Park
July 19, 2025
Jack Marley Park – 249 E Williams St, Angier
Teams and individuals welcome.
We’ve got divisions for ages 12 through adult. So, whether you’re in it to win it or just want to play for the fun of it, this is for you. Local, energetic, and full of friendly competition — don’t miss it.
Registration is open now and ends July 4. Spots are limited. Get your team signed up or register solo and we’ll match you.
Thanks again to all the families and players who joined us today. You are the why we do what we do… and we can’t wait to see you at the next event.
Meet the Guest Coaches Elevating Our Summer Volleyball Camps
At Panther Volleyball Training, we believe in developing the whole athlete—mind, body, and mindset. That’s why our 2025 summer volleyball camps are packed with powerful mentorship, expert instruction, and elite guidance from hand-picked guest coaches. These leaders bring a blend of NCAA experience, youth-focused training, and game-changing knowledge your athlete won't get anywhere else.
Whether your child is new to volleyball or training for tryouts, these coaches are here to help them move with confidence, fuel their body, and master their mental game.
Jump to:
Kat Entwisle – Movement & Nutrition Coach
Instagram:
Kat Entwisle is a Certified Nutrition Coach and Movement Specialist at Original Strength Institute in Fuquay-Varina, NC. With a background in youth athletic development and adult strength training, Kat specializes in building strong, resilient athletes from the ground up.
At our volleyball camps, Kat will lead athletes through active recovery routines, injury-prevention warmups, and teach accessible nutrition strategies for energy and long-term health. Her session goes beyond the basics—athletes will learn how to feel their best and stay consistent during high-intensity seasons.
Bekah Strange – Collegiate Coach & Mentor
Instagram:
Coach Bekah is currently the Assistant Volleyball Coach at Campbell University, bringing with her a standout background as a Division I libero at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and years of coaching at the high school, club, and collegiate level.
Known for her leadership and technical sharpness, Bekah connects with athletes by sharing what it truly takes to level up. Her sessions at camp will include watching how well players communicate, fine tuning their technique and showing the results of good teamwork—all filtered through the lens of a coach who has been where many athletes want to go.
She’ll also share what college coaches look for, how players can be great teammates, and how to mentally prepare for tryout season and beyond.
Brad Marshall – Mental Performance & Sports Training Expert
Instagram:
Brad Marshall is a highly regarded sports performance and mindset coach working with youth and adult athletes across North Carolina. With a background in psychology-informed coaching, Brad focuses on how athletes think, recover, and perform under pressure.
At camp, Brad will guide athletes through mental performance drills designed to sharpen focus, build confidence, and reduce anxiety during game-time situations. His sessions will help players bounce back from mistakes, set performance goals, and take ownership of their mindset on and off the court.
Brad’s ability to relate to student-athletes and meet them where they are makes his training a valuable layer to our camp’s holistic approach.
This Isn’t Just a Camp—It’s a Launchpad
We’ve curated a volleyball camp experience that goes far beyond basic drills. With real mentorship, real movement education, and real sports psychology support, your athlete will leave with more than skills—they’ll leave empowered.
Spots are limited, and this lineup is only available through Panther Volleyball Training this summer.
Register now for our June & July Volleyball Camps
Located in Angier, NC – serving Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, Garner, and surrounding communities.
Congratulations Panther Volleyball Training Athletes!
Congrats to all our amazing athletes on a fantastic rec volleyball season! Your growth, determination, and teamwork have been incredible to witness. Whether you hit a personal goal, learned a new skill, or set your sights on what’s next… we are so proud of each of you.
Nothing brings us more joy than seeing the athletes we’ve had the privilege to coach succeed. From the court to the stands, it’s been an honor to cheer you on this season. 💪
Special shoutout to:
Cora, Reema, Kailyn, Lexie, Sofia L., Ella, Charlotte, Sofia R., Addison, Erin, Izzy, Stella, Ehdith, Kylie, Kimora, Zoe and many, many more!
Your hard work and dedication showed every single game. Keep showing up, keep working hard, and keep believing in yourselves… we sure do!
Here’s to new goals, new seasons, and a love for the game that keeps growing. See you all very soon!
#panthervolleytraining #panthervolleyball #fuquayvarina #SkillsAndDrills
No Competition, Just Community: Why We Love GCAA Volleyball
Meet Melissa and Brandon
The brains and energy behind the Greater Cleveland Athletic Association Volleyball program.
As our rec season wraps up, we wanted to take a moment to express our deep appreciation for the incredible experience we've had with the program at GCAA Volleyball. From the first practice to the final point, this program has been more than just a place to play—it’s been a place to grow.
Led by the kind, knowledgeable, and passionate directors Melissa Smith and Brandon Rae, GCAA Volleyball stands out not only for its skill development but for the way it nurtures young athletes as whole people. Their leadership creates a space where kids feel encouraged, supported, and truly seen.
We have the same objective as GCAA… no pressure, no competition between programs, just a genuine shared hope: to see every child thrive. That kind of environment is rare and so deeply appreciated. Watching our player and her teammates grow in confidence, ability, and love for the game has been the highlight of our season.
To Melissa and Brandon—thank you. Thank you for your warm welcome, your consistency, your expertise, and your hard work. We are grateful for your time, your energy, and the environment you’ve built at GCAA.
If you’re looking for an affordable league that builds strong athletes and even stronger character, we can’t recommend GCAA Volleyball enough. You can find them online here: GCAA Volleyball
Small Group Volleyball Clinics Recap: Elevating the Game Together
Panther Volleyball Training just wrapped up our first round of Small Group Clinics, and we could not be more proud of the athletes who showed up, worked hard, and embraced every challenge.
A special thank you to Tina Morgan, owner of South Wake Sports Academy, for allowing us to use her incredible facility. It has been a fantastic experience training in a space that supports focus, energy, and athlete development. We are truly grateful for her support and partnership.
This clinic series was created for athletes with strong fundamentals who are ready to sharpen their competitive edge. These players came in with experience and left with a deeper understanding of high-level skills, court awareness, and game strategy. The smaller group format allowed us to dive into more intense drills and give detailed feedback tailored to each athlete’s needs.
One of the best parts of this experience has been getting to know both the athletes and their families on a more personal level. Watching their progress, confidence, and love for the game grow is exactly why we do what we do.
If your athlete is newer to volleyball, please know we offer camps focused on foundational skills, confidence-building, and introducing the game in a fun and supportive way. Our day camps on June 23-26 & July 7-10 are a great opportunity to see what we do. Every athlete deserves the chance to grow, and we are here to support all levels.
Our final day of small group training and we are all exhausted.
Thank you to the parents who made this first clinic session a success. We are just getting started and already looking forward to what is coming next.
Stay connected for future announcements, upcoming clinics, and more ways your athlete can train with Panther Volleyball. Sign up to receive our newsletter!
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