Best colleges for volleyball athletes?

Hey guys! I'm a junior, and volleyball is my life. I definitely want to play in college, so which schools should I look into for both strong academics and great volleyball teams? Thanks so much!

Hi there! It's awesome that you're passionate about volleyball and want to find a college with both strong academics and a great volleyball program. Keep in mind that volleyball programs vary across NCAA divisions (Divisions I, II, and III), so it's important to consider which level you want to play at, as well as the academic offerings of each school.

I'll provide you with a few examples from each division with strong volleyball programs and solid academics:

NCAA Division I:

1. Stanford University: Known for exceptional academics and a consistently top-tier women's volleyball program. They've won numerous national titles and recruit strong athletes from all over the country.

2. University of Texas at Austin: Another powerhouse in women's volleyball, UT Austin combines excellent academics with a high-performing and competitive volleyball program.

NCAA Division II:

1. University of Tampa: Offers a well-regarded volleyball program and a solid academic experience in a variety of majors.

2. Cal State San Bernardino: A strong public university with competitive academics, their women's volleyball program has been successful in recent years, regularly finishing with top rankings in DII.

NCAA Division III:

1. Washington University in St. Louis: Known for their excellent academics and a successful women's volleyball program, consistently ranking in the top of Division III.

2. Emory University: Another academically prestigious institution with a women's volleyball team that performs well in DIII.

These are just a few examples, but there are many opportunities for student-athletes to excel in both academics and volleyball across all divisions. While you're researching options, make sure to also consider factors like school size, location, and majors offered. Reach out to coaches at schools you're interested in, showcasing your skills through a highlight reel and expressing your interest in their program.

Good luck in your search, and I hope you find a college that's a great fit for both your volleyball and academic aspirations!